renew-pueblo

Skin Acceptance and Why It Matters

Mon, 17 May 2021 19:39:54 GMT

Skin Acceptance and Why It Matters

What happens when you break out, or notice fine lines and wrinkles that weren’t there before, or really, experience any skin challenge that plagues you?

As humans, we may want to—

• hide (not leave the house)

• cover-up (use extra make-up for coverage)

• add a filter to photos

• feel shame and confusion

• physically try to fix the “problem” (over-pick, over-cleanse, over-exfoliate, etc.)

What if there were other options when it comes to dealing with our skin concerns?

The idea of skin acceptance and skin positivity is being discussed now more than ever and we think it’s time to talk about it, too.

We often hear that “flawless” skin is the goal but attaining it can be a troublesome journey without embracing skin acceptance and understanding why it matters for your health and wellness.

What Is Skin Acceptance, Exactly?

If you’re on social media , you’ve probably heard the terms acne acceptance, skin positivity, and skin acceptance being used.

But what do these terms really mean? Is it just another trendy movement?

We hope not.

As we talk more about mental health awareness , with that comes the discussion of self-esteem and confidence and how our skin can affect those areas.

This is where the concept of skin acceptance comes in and how you can incorporate it more into your life.

A major sidenote: skin acceptance in no way means you must neglect the care of your skin all for acceptance. Skin health is the goal; flawless skin is not.

Skin Acceptance and Why It Matters

MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS

In a world of photo filters and just-right lighting, it can be easy to hide behind those tools.

But when someone bucks the “norm” and posts a picture of their not-so-covered-up acne , or a rosacea flare-up —or shows up to lunch with a bare face that exposes hyperpigmentation—it can be a shock.

A shock that can create a ripple effect of skin acceptance.

Because you realize it’s not just you that experiences challenges with your skin. You suddenly don’t feel so alone.

And that matters for mental health.

Because it’s time to normalize…

Skin texture.

Pores.

Acne/breakouts.

Inflammation.

Aging/fine lines/wrinkles.

Most of us experience these everyday skin challenges (yes, we know there are skin unicorns out there who don't!), yet we’re trying to banish them and work towards a world where they don’t exist.

That may never happen, but daily skin health and skin acceptance can.

CARING FOR YOUR SKIN MATTERS

Skin acceptance doesn’t mean glazing over skin health and throwing your skincare routine out the window.

Caring for your skin still matters.

The mental health exhaustion and fatigue that can come with it may be optional, or at least less than what you’re used to.

It’s time to pick and choose skin battles.

Having acne can be brutal on self-esteem especially when you’ve tried everything to “get rid of it”.

We’re not suggesting you stop the journey of skin health; we’re simply saying—what if you could go about it with more grace and less angst?

• Seek a skincare professional you trust.

• Discover a skincare routine and lifestyle choices that promote the health of your skin.

• Be aware of self-talk that encourages acceptance for your skincare journey.

• Find an uplifting and supportive community with similar struggles as your own and know you’re not alone.

FEELING IN CONTROL MATTERS

One of the hardest aspects of facing a skin challenge is the lack of control.

You feel like you’ve tried everything but nothing’s working, so it can be easy to give up or lose hope.

In today’s culture, we desperately want quick fixes and immediate results, even though that’s typically not reality.

This is where healthy expectations can help you feel in control.

• Remember that skin is complex and the more you can keep an open mind and experiment with what works for you, the less you’ll need to compare your skin to others.

• Skin challenges happen—just like life challenges—so keep that in mind when you experience a flare-up.

You may not be able to control what happens TO you, but you can control how you react.

• Take a walk and some deep breaths.

• Reach out to a supportive community.

• Seek a new skincare consultation.

• Embrace skin acceptance and acknowledge at least one positive aspect about yourself that doesn’t involve your skin.

• Shift the desire for skin perfection to skin health.

Skin acceptance—fad or for real? This one is up to you.

Yes, skin imperfections can be brutal and take a massive toll on our mental health.

But what if we didn’t let it take us completely down?

What if we embrace skin acceptance as we continuously work on the best version of ourselves?

Do your research.

Work with skin care professionals.

Experiment with new skincare and lifestyle choices.

Get that facial/laser/chemical peel.

Keep your filler and injectable appointments.

Do the things that feel good for you—what is in your control.

Leave the rest to your smile, laughter, and a life that loves you—imperfections and all.

What Is IV Therapy? Your Ultimate Guide.

Wed, 21 Apr 2021 21:00:24 GMT

What Is IV Therapy? Your Ultimate Guide.

What does the word IV make you think of?

A hospital setting, or even better—does the word IV remind you of George Clooney racing down the hospital hallway in ER?

(We’ll take the reminder of Mr. Clooney, please!)

We understand that the thought of an IV can definitely conjure up a not-so-enticing sterile environment feeling.

But what if we said an IV can actually induce relaxation and support your wellness at the same time?

We want to welcome you to Drip—IV Vitamin Therapy at Renew Medical Spa in Pueblo, CO.

So, what is IV therapy, exactly? Let’s find out…

What Is IV Therapy?

IV (stands for intravenous) Therapy can deliver vitamins, minerals, medication, and fluids through an IV drip.

When this method is used to administer through the veins, your body receives what it needs in the bloodstream quickly and has a better rate (almost 90%) of absorption versus oral administration (about 50%).

What Is IV Therapy Used For?

IV Therapy is used to deliver much-needed fluids to the body.

And in our case, at Renew, that looks like vitamins and minerals that support your immune system, energy to recharge, recovery from too much alcohol intake the night before, and a replenish combination for the athlete.

VITAMINS AND MINERALS USED IN IV THERAPY

• Zinc— Supports immune function and the body in making proteins and DNA

• B-12— A big energy source! This water-soluble vitamin supports the functioning of your nervous system, as well as the production of red blood cells and DNA.

• Magnesium— This very important mineral helps with nerve and muscle function, in addition to enzyme reactions in your body.

• Amino Blend— This blend of building block proteins enhances muscle tissue repair and increases endurance. Perfect for the athlete who needs balance to their system.

• Vitamin B Complex— Supports brain and nervous system function, energy levels and are building blocks of a healthy body.

• Vitamin C— A powerhouse vitamin for aging gracefully! Vitamin C supports collagen (plumps the skin), immune system, wound healing, and is crucial for the development, growth, and repair of tissues in the body.

• Glutathione— An antioxidant you want in your corner. Glutathione supports the immune system, body detoxification, and neutralizes free radicals.

What Are the Benefits of IV Therapy?

Aside from the obvious fact you’re taking care of YOU and carving out time for self-care and wellness (which is a big deal!)— IV Therapy offers these added bonuses:

• Proper Absorption

When a supplement is taken orally the absorption rate can be around 50%; with IV supplementation you’re looking at an absorption rate of close to 90%.

This can provide peace of mind especially in regard to the results you’re seeking (energy, immune system support, hydration, etc.).

• Customization

Most IV drips can be customized to treat your specific concerns, so you can get exactly what you need.

• Results

An IV Therapy session typically lasts anywhere from 45-60 minutes. During this time, you can relax, watch TV, or catch up on email.

As for the results (hydration, energy, etc.)—depending on the person—those can be felt immediately or up to a few days post-session.

Are There Risks, If Any, With IV Therapy?

With any treatment, one must be aware of any risk involved.

Although IV Therapy is generally regarded as safe and low risk, there are a few things to keep in mind.

• Anytime an IV is involved there’s a potential risk of infection, inflammation, and blood clots.

• Please speak with a medical professional if you’re thinking about IV Therapy if you have kidney disease, blood pressure, or heart conditions.

• If not monitored safely during infusion, fluid overload may occur which places you at risk for electrolyte imbalance.

At Renew, we like to think of IV Therapy as wellness on demand.

Whether you’re an athlete or a busy mom who needs some extra nourishment this is a perfect hour of your day to take care of yourself and your body!

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to call Renew, or schedule a consultation so we can help you make the best decision for you.

What Is Radiesse® Filler (And How It Differs from Other Dermal Fillers)?

Sun, 14 Mar 2021 23:47:11 GMT

What Is Radiesse® Filler (And How It Differs from Other Dermal Fillers)?

Do you know what the true fountain of youth is?

(If that made you think of the movie Death Becomes Her and their “immortality treatment”, it did the same for us!)

Aside from a healthy lifestyle, strong self-care, and a positive attitude—we’d have to say collagen ranks up there with the fountain of youth.

We know there’s no stopping the clock or test of time, but if we want to slow it down, the increased production of collagen in your skin can absolutely help a youthful appearance (and I think we all want a little piece of that pie!).

Please allow us to introduce you to Radiesse® dermal filler—a collagen stimulator that works with your body to reveal a refreshed look.

What Is Radiesse Filler?

We fell in love with this product and company ( Merz Aesthetics ) from the very beginning because of what they offer and how it works to suit your unique needs.

Radiesse is an FDA-approved dermal filler option that may give volume to areas that need help to smooth facial wrinkles, folds, and even hands.

How Radiesse Filler Works

“Collagen is the main structural protein in our skin—it’s what helps it feel and look tight, taught, and youthful. As we age, the production of collagen slows down, causing skin to sag.

RADIESSE is a collagen stimulator. It stimulates the body’s process of generating collagen and encourages growth, for a more refreshed appearance, so beauty can bloom.”

– RADIESSE®/Merz Aesthetics

This unique dermal filler is made up of CaHA (calcium hydroxylapatite) gel microspheres that get to work upon injection.

Most often, you should see immediate volume before the appointment is over and it continues to work long after by stimulating your own natural collagen (which creates that voluminous look).

As time passes, the body metabolizes the CaHA gel and you’re left with your very own natural collagen to help maintain a youthful appearance—which is why this treatment can last longer than most other fillers .

What Can I Expect During and After My Appointment?

First and foremost, we highly recommend finding the right cosmetic injector . With research and consultation(s), you should be well on your way to finding the right fit for you!

Once it’s time for your dermal filler injections, you’ll be given the option of numbing cream to help ease any discomfort that could be associated with the procedure.

During this time, you and your cosmetic injector will have ongoing discussions on where you’ll be injected and the look you want to achieve.

Aside from signing forms and numbing, the actual injections typically only take 15 minutes or so.

As for what happens after your appointment—most people see volume or correction soon after injection and full results within a week or two.

Maintenance and follow-up appointments are recommended which will be decided upon between you and your injector.

It’s normal to experience swelling, bruising, and some discomfort but please consult with your skincare professional if any of those symptoms persist.

What Are the Side Effects?

If you have any of the following, Radiesse may not be the right dermal filler for you—

• Allergy to any component of the product

• History of severe allergies

• Bleeding Disorder

• Pregnant or breastfeeding

• Allergy to lidocaine or medicines like it

• Skin infection

With any dermal filler, please thoroughly go over the intake forms and have an open conversation with your cosmetic injector about any concerns you may have.

How Does Radiesse Differ from Other Dermal Fillers?

One of the biggest differences with Radiesse is the use of CaHA (calcium hydroxylapatite) gel microspheres that stimulate the production of collagen versus hyaluronic acid that’s used by most other dermal fillers like Juvederm.

Both fillers plump and add volume, but Radiesse works with your body for a long-lasting approach.

Radiesse is best used for—

• Back of hands for loss of volume

• Smoothing facial wrinkles, especially around the nose and mouth

• Volume loss in the cheek area

• Reshape jawline

• Contour the nose area

Radiesse has quickly become one of our favorite dermal fillers at Renew!

We love how it not only gives us the ability to add volume and reshape, but it also works with your body to produce natural collagen for long-lasting results—which is a key component to the fountain of youth (or at least looking refreshed!).

truSculpt iD® | Your Ultimate Guide to Non-Surgical Body Contouring

Tue, 16 Feb 2021 22:42:59 GMT

truSculpt iD® | Your Ultimate Guide to Non-Surgical Body Contouring

Have you hit a plateau or just can’t seem to get the jumpstart you really need to feel comfortable in your body?

Perhaps you’ve crunched your way to finally see the definition in your abs, but those (not-so) love handles aren’t cooperating with you.

Perhaps you began a healthy lifestyle journey, and you feel lighter, but you need a little more fuel to keep you going.

Perhaps just the thought of starting to feel good in your clothes is daunting and you don’t know where to even start.

You’re not alone.

We—along with many clients—have a story like this to tell.

Some days it’s hard enough to get out of bed, get dressed, and start the coffee.

Add to that the extra mile to really see a difference in your body—it can be exhausting.

We’re not going to say it’s not worth it (because it SO is!).

But sometimes a little extra love to keep us going doesn’t hurt…and that’s where truSculpt iD®--a non-surgical approach to body contouring—comes in.

What Is Non-Surgical Body Contouring?

Non-surgical body contouring is often referred to as non-surgical fat reduction which focuses on the reduction or removal of obstinate areas of fat with the goal of contouring particular parts of the body.

There are several options for treatment that include –

• Cryolipolysis (freezing fat)

• Laser lipolysis (laser energy and controlled heat)

• Radiofrequency lipolysis (ultrasound and controlled heating)

• Injection lipolysis (injectable deoxycholic acid, also known as Kybella® )

At Renew, we use truSculpt® iD (also known as “melting the fat”) which uses heat control and Radiofrequency Energy to optimize efficacy and patient comfort.

What Is truSculpt iD®?

truSculpt® iD by Cutera is a revolutionary non-surgical, body contouring treatment that allows you to personalize your ideal body in as little as one 15-minute treatment.

(Fun fact: We fell in love with this technology and knew it was right for our clients, so we became the FIRST practice in Colorado to offer truSculpt iD®!)

HOW TRUSCULPT ID® WORKS

• truSculpt iD® uses innovative Monopolar RF technology to selectively target fat and therapeutically heat it – until fat cells are eliminated by passing through the body naturally.

• Average of 24% fat reduction is achieved in just one treatment.

• Can be used on most areas of the body—especially the abdomen, flanks, chin, and arms.

• No visible downtime after the procedure and normal activity can be resumed immediately.

• The treatment time is dependent on the treatment size and how many areas are treated. Treatment time is typically 15 to 30 minutes to treat the abdomen and flanks.

• Results are typically visible after just one treatment, with maximum results seen after 12 weeks. Additional treatments may be required to achieve the personalized results you desire.

WHAT MAKES TRUSCULPT ID® DIFFERENT THAN OTHER BODY CONTOURING PROCEDURES?

• This procedure is versatile and effective to treat a wide range of patients who may not be a candidate for other contouring procedures due to treatment location, skin type, fat thickness, and presence of skin laxity.

• The treatment has minimal discomfort and has been compared to a hot stone massage.

• Because truSculpt iD® is a customized and tailored treatment to meet individual needs, most adult men and women are a candidate.

• Check out our blog on “A Melt the Fat or Freeze the Fat Comparison” here and find out the differences between truSculpt iD® and CoolSculpting®.

Is Non-Surgical Body Contouring Right for Me?

Now that you know what body contouring is and the type of technology we use at Renew, there are still some factors to consider if this is right for you.

WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS?

If you’re looking for a quick fix, this is not it. (Is anything, really, a quick fix?)

Body contouring is meant to work with your healthy lifestyle, so you can sculpt the body you work so hard for.

One treatment typically yields visible results after 12 weeks, and more treatments may be needed.

Just like food and exercise—body contouring takes time.

LIFESTYLE

If you’re just starting out on a new, healthy lifestyle—with whole foods and more movement —we applaud you.

That takes time, dedication, and effort—congratulations—keep going!

A body contouring session can be just what you need to kick your new healthy habit off, as well as maintain it over time.

PROPER CONSULTATION

A consultation with the right professional can do you and your body wonders.

If you feel pressure or are told this is the golden ticket to a perfect body, run away!

Body contouring —in no way—is a substitute for a healthy lifestyle.

This is simply a wellness tool that can help you work toward your ideal body so you can feel comfortable inside and out!

Thyroid and Hormones | 3 Things to Know for Optimal Balance

Tue, 19 Jan 2021 20:54:19 GMT

Thyroid and Hormones | 3 Things to Know for Optimal Balance

Did you know some 20 million Americans have a form of thyroid disease and women are 5-8 times more likely than men to have problems with their thyroid ?

You’ve probably heard of someone you know that suffers from thyroid issues. Or maybe you have your own suspicions around the health of yours.

Because the thyroid is a big producer of hormones, imbalances can occur simultaneously in both the thyroid and hormones.

If the health of your thyroid and hormones have ever been a question, we have 3 things for you to know for optimal balance.

What Is the Thyroid?

This tiny but mighty butterfly-shaped gland is located under the Adam’s apple and is critical in how hormones function properly in the body.

It helps regulate metabolism and hormones and has an influence on most of the body—including the heart, brain, liver, kidneys, and skin.

Think of your thyroid gland like a car—it requires maintenance, fuel, time, and attention to function properly.

When a disruption in the thyroid occurs, a disorder like hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, goiter, and nodules can appear.

Symptoms of these disorders can show up in the form of—

• Slow thinking

• Stiffness and pain in joints

• Bags under the eyes

• Poor sense of balance, dizziness

• Nasal congestion

• Yellowing of palms of hands and soles of feet

• Depression

• Moody and irritable

• Bowel movements less than daily, or with difficulty

• Face looks bloated

• Difficulty losing weight, even when eating less/exercising more

• Feel worse if a meal is missed

• Sleep disturbances

• PMS

• Lack of sweating, even when exercising

• Frequent infections

• Headaches, often worse in morning

• Low sex drive

• Excessive menstrual bleeding

• Feel cold more than most other people

• Dry skin or hair and/or hair loss

Any of these symptoms seem familiar to you?

Thyroid and Hormones | 3 Things to Know for Optimal Balance

Yes, the thyroid is a major player in the overall health and function of your body, so it makes sense to have a concern if this gland isn’t working properly.

Keep in mind—even if your thyroid acts up—you have options for optimal balance with your thyroid and hormones.

#1—SPEAK WITH YOUR DOCTOR

It may go without saying, but for some, a nudge to see a doctor is necessary.

And if you haven’t found one you enjoy (or one in general!)—now is the perfect time to find a doctor and become established as a patient.

One of the worst feelings is a lack of control when it comes to health. Be ahead of the game—and in control of your health—by finding and working with a doctor you feel comfortable with.

Special hormones that regulate the thyroid—like TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone), T4 (Thyroxine), T3 (Triiodothyronine), and Reverse T3—need to be screened by a physician for proper diagnosis.

Think of this doctor visit as self-care and (hopefully) on the road to knowing more about what your body needs to feel its best!

#2—HORMONE OPTIMIZATION

Hormone therapy by BioTE® is a plant-based, non-synthetic, natural hormone replacement therapy aimed to balance your hormones for healthy aging—especially when it comes to your thyroid.

Oftentimes, a thyroid treatment can hit a wall, and then it’s back to the drawing board for a different thyroid therapy.

With the help of BioTE® hormone optimization , you may experience thyroid symptom relief with the objective of restoration— both for your emotional and physical wellbeing.

Find a qualified BioTE® provider near you and begin the conversation of what bio-identical hormone replacement therapy can do for you.

#3—HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

Guess what lifestyle factor plays a major role in your thyroid health ?

Stress.

We know that’s probably not a big surprise considering how much stress can affect so many aspects of everyday life.

The upside to this is you can help control—more often than not—the role stress plays in your life and the impact on your thyroid health.

Incorporation of a Mediterranean Diet (abundant vegetables, fruit, lean protein, fish, and healthy fats like avocado and olive oil) may help lower inflammation in the body for a healthy thyroid.

It’s best to stay away from processed foods—especially those high in refined sugar and trans fats.

Stick with whole foods low in sugar, decrease environmental toxins such as BPA and strong fragrances, move your body daily (a 15–20-minute walk is good for the body and soul), and check with your doctor about what supplements—if any—could support your thyroid.

When it comes to your thyroid—and hormones in general—it’s best to utilize a team effort approach.

Speak with a doctor and get tests run that’ll steer you in the right direction and come up with a plan to get your thyroid and hormones working at optimal health.

If you’re interested in hormone health, or what BioTE® can do for you, Dr. Elijah would love to speak with you about hormone health.

Schedule an appointment today to start your self-care and wellness journey!

COVID-19 Updates & Gratitude

Mon, 23 Nov 2020 18:45:00 GMT

COVID-19 Updates & Gratitude

Hi!

We'd love to check in with you and give you some updates, and while we're at it, spread some cheer, too!

COVID-19

Most of all, we hope you're safe and healthy. If you've been affected by COVID-19 in any way our hearts go out to you and your loved ones.

Dr. Elijah's seen what this virus can do and we're taking every precaution we can to keep you and us safe at Renew.

Here are our COVID-19 reminders and guidelines.

SERVICES

We're full service, but now with the exception of any treatment that would require you to remove your mask i.e. lip filler, facials, and laser services around the lip/chin/mouth area.

PRODUCT

Our ZO Skin Health and Osmosis MD Skincare products are ready for you. We offer curbside delivery, so all you need to do is give us a call and place your product order and we'll run it out to your car for you. You can also shop online directly through our link for any ZO® product.

GIFT CARDS

We offer gift cards for purchase. These are a great idea for the holidays!

CONTACTLESS PAYMENT

Have peace of mind knowing that contactless payment is an option for you at Renew.

SAFETY

These safety guidelines keep both you and the Renew Crew safe.

• Your car is the waiting room! Please wait in your car until we call you to come in for your service.

• A mask shall be worn at all times by both service-provider and client (If you don't have one, we will provide one for you).

• Renew offers hand sanitizer and air purifiers will be running at all times.

• Your temperature will be taken upon entry of Renew.

• A COVID-19 consent form must be signed prior to service.

• If you feel sick PLEASE reschedule for the health and safety of everyone.

Best of Pueblo

Thanks to YOU, Renew took home the gold in the category of Best Spa/Medical Spa, and Charmayne did the same for Best Alternative/Aesthetic Medicine Provider.

None of this is taken for granted and our hearts are filled with gratitude for your kindness and loyalty.

It's a privilege to do what you love and you make that possible!

Thank you, thank you!

Holiday Menu

Holiday cheer is coming your way next week in the form of our Holiday Menu.

Keep an eye out!

Most of all we want to thank you for supporting us through these times.

If you can, please continue to spread the love to other small businesses--like restaurants--that need our help as well.

We love Pueblo and want to keep these local businesses as strong as possible, especially when we're on the other side of this pandemic.

With Deep Gratitude & Appreciation,

The Renew Crew (Dr. Elijah, Charmayne, and Tyra)

One-Size-Does-Not-Fit-All | Our 360-Skincare Approach

Wed, 28 Oct 2020 15:56:57 GMT

One-Size-Does-Not-Fit-All | Our 360-Skincare Approach

Wouldn’t it be amazing if there was a cure-all for skincare?

If only we could have a magic twinkle of the nose and poof—there go the wrinkles, fine lines, acne, scarring, and anything else that digs at our self-confidence.

A magic skincare potion is probably being worked on somewhere in the world right now, but until that miracle happens, we have one thing we know that does work—our 360-skincare approach—because one-size-does-not-fit-all when it comes to how we work with your skin and how unique it is to you.

The Skin Aging Process

Did you know when it comes to the process of aging and skin it usually begins in your mid-late 20’s? (Ouch. We know that number probably stings!)

As we age, collagen is produced less and less, facial bones begin to recede, and fat pads drop around the eyes and cheeks.

This is where you’ll see the hollowing and dark circles emerge in those areas.

Sometimes we think just getting dermal fillers, or Botox is the quick fix to aging, but there’s so much more to your skincare than injections and fillers .

Neither Botox, nor filler, will help with skin texture, acne, or deep skin challenges.

That’s why we rely on a 360-skincare approach.

Our 360-Skincare Approach

Ideally, your skin health starts long before filler and Botox enter the picture.

But we know life isn’t always ideal and we’re a medical spa with many treatments and services to start wherever you are in your skincare journey.

Charmayne—our Medical Aesthetician —likens this 360-skincare approach to going to a personal trainer and maintaining a healthy lifestyle for optimal results.

At Renew, we’re your skincare personal trainer.

• We consult with you and customize a skincare treatment program for your unique needs and goals. No algorithm-fed system here.

• We support both your skin health and wellness with vaginal rejuvenation , and digestive, immune, and skin clarifying supplement support from Osmosis Wellness .

We start where you are because skincare is a journey, not just a destination.

So, if your goal is even skin tone and decreased fine lines and wrinkles, perhaps we start with a CO2 Laser Resurfacing treatment first and then move on to filler.

Or maybe we need to look at your hormones before we do anything else because that may be the cause of unchecked stress and skin challenges.

And what you do (or do not do) with our recommendations at home is your skin health lifestyle.

We’re not here for a quick fix (well, sometimes Botox can do that!), we’re here to help you feel confident and comfortable from the inside out!

Ask Charmayne | What Is CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing?

Tue, 20 Oct 2020 18:07:02 GMT

Ask Charmayne | What Is CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing?

Question: I keep hearing about “laser skin resurfacing” and the amazing benefits it offers, but I also hear it’s more of an intense laser treatment with downtime. Is it worth it if my skincare goals are even skin tone, texture, and less scarring?

You have no idea how much I love this question!

What you’re referring to is something we offer at Renew which is a CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing treatment.

You’ve absolutely heard correctly that this service comes with remarkable benefits for your skin, and it’s also true those results do take more pre and post-treatment care—as well as downtime—to achieve.

Let’s talk about everything CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing has to offer, what you can expect, and if it’s right for you and your customized skincare plan.

What Is CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing?

We’re pretty sure you’ve heard all about collagen and how crucial it is to how we age, especially when it comes to how much, or how little collagen we make.

With this specialized micro-ablative laser —used to create small wounds in the skin—it helps to increase collagen production and we all need a little bit more of that!

What Does CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing Treat?

CO2 laser skin resurfacing is highly customizable and aims to support an overall smooth and even skin tone and texture in addition to promoting collagen production.

CO2 laser may also treat—

• Scars

• Warts

• Skin laxity

• Age spots

• Fine lines, wrinkles, and deeper skin challenges

What Is the Care and Maintenance for A CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing Treatment?

Here’s where CO2 differs greatly from a lot of our other skin rejuvenation treatments: care and maintenance.

There’ll be both pre and post-treatment for this service in addition to an in-depth skincare consultation.

Your skin type and lifestyle (the sun is not your friend right after) are all factors for consideration.

Compared to our other “lunchtime” services like Laser Genesis it’s best to block out time to focus on healing as your face may be red and tender for some time post-treatment.

No social events for 7-10 days, not applying make-up, and staying out of the sun is highly encouraged in your healing process and may drive better results.

While we may suggest a series of CO2 treatments, you may see significant improvement in your skin health with just one and increased results over time.

You know my passion for skincare and how much I geek out on bringing you the best technology and knowledge to help you feel comfortable in your own skin.

CO2 laser skin resurfacing is one of my personal favorite treatments, especially for those deeper skin challenges that other services just can’t treat.

This service is a true skin ninja and is perfect for a skin reset when other options just haven’t worked.

What Is the Injectable Xeomin and How Does It Compare to Botox?

Tue, 29 Sep 2020 21:38:56 GMT

What Is the Injectable Xeomin and How Does It Compare to Botox?

If you follow anything Goop and Gwyneth Paltrow related, then you’ve probably heard about Xeomin— Gwyneth’s new favorite injectable to smooth facial lines like crow’s feet, forehead wrinkles, and frown lines.

So why is this a big deal now, even though it’s not that new to the market?

Other than a celebrity endorsement, Xeomin touts a “cleaner” version of an injectable—one that lacks “unnecessary proteins” as Gwyneth puts it.

But the big question remains: is it as effective as Botox?

Let’s take a look and find out…

What Is Xeomin?

Xeomin® (incobotulinumtoxinA)—a purified anti-wrinkle injection that lacks unnecessary proteins—is FDA-approved and owned by Merz Pharmaceuticals.

The company does acknowledge with a disclaimer that, “*Studies have not been performed to determine whether the presence or absence of accessory proteins has a long-term effect on safety or efficacy.”

Xeomin is also FDA-approved for the treatment of adults with cervical dystonia (involuntary contraction of the neck muscles) and blepharospasm (abnormal contraction of eyelid muscles).

How Does Xeomin Compare to Botox?

This anti-wrinkle injectable may have the same efficacy as Botox—even without the added proteins.

It has a lot of the same effects as Botox—

• Relaxes facial muscles, so lines are softened

• Results last 3-6 months

• In-office visit is less then 30 minutes, especially if you’re familiar with injectables

Differences between Xeomin vs. Botox—

• Because Xeomin lacks extra proteins it may be less allergenic than Botox , but no studies have proven that theory, yet.

• Xeomin cost is comparable to Botox but may be slightly lower. Please check with your local medical spa for exact pricing.

• Xeomin does not need refrigeration prior to use (like Botox does) and this may help simplify the delivery of this product.

Even though Xeomin and Botox have similarities and differences, each are still made up of the same botulinum toxin—with or without added proteins.

Whether these added proteins are necessary or not, the jury’s still out.

It’s nice to know this is an option for anti-aging and anyone who wants to try this version of injectables for making those 11’s (vertical lines between the eyebrows) and crow’s feet look super smooth!

If you want more information about Xeomin and if it’s right for you, Renew Medical Spa does offer this injectable and we’d be happy to help you customize a skincare plan just for you!

Want Real Chemical Peel Results? The Key Is to Skin Prep.

Thu, 17 Sep 2020 19:41:05 GMT

Want Real Chemical Peel Results? The Key Is to Skin Prep.

Have you tried a chemical peel before?

And no, we’re not talking about the at-home version where you let YouTube be your guide and pray you don’t burn your skin off.

We’re talking about an in-office chemical peel guided by skincare professionals.

You can technically do a chemical peel any time of the year, however, Fall and Winter are our favorite seasons for chemical peels.

The biggest reason why we love cooler weather for a chemical peel is that the sun isn’t shining so bright which means good things for your skin.

If you want real chemical peel results the key is to skin prep (and that includes staying out of the sun).

So, let’s find out what exactly that entails…

Why Is Skin Prep Important for A Chemical Peel?

If you’re a pro at visiting your skincare professional then you’ve probably heard the gospel on the importance of prepping your skin for a chemical peel .

But if you’re new to professional skincare treatments—welcome—let’s chat about why chemical peel skin prep matters.

Who doesn’t love efficiency, right?

We all want to work smarter, not harder.

The same goes for your skin.

Your skin will maximize the benefits of a chemical peel with just a little hard work up upfront.

So, what does that elbow-grease look like?

5 TIPS FOR CHEMICAL PEEL SKIN PREP

#1—WORK WITH A SKINCARE PROFESSIONAL

If you have a go-to person for your skincare needs, and you love their work—hallelujah—count yourself lucky!

If you don’t have a skincare professional in your back pocket, now’s the time to start looking.

Start researching and testing out consultations with those in your area.

Remember: every person is different, so just because something worked for your friend doesn’t mean it’ll work for you.

A thorough analysis of your skin is crucial in this step and will lead you down the right path for your skin type—not your bestie’s.

#2—PROTECT YOUR SKIN

Nobody needs MORE sun damage (or any to begin with, but hey, we’re all human), so it’s important to protect your skin —even when the sun isn’t shining brightly.

Wear a hat, don’t forget sunscreen, and learn to love the shade.

This will help your skin not be damaged by the sun and be as healthy as possible for a chemical peel.

#3—DON’T FORGET YOUR ENZYME PEEL

Enzyme peels are perfect pre-treatments to chemical peels.

The enzyme peel (a blend of natural fruit ingredients) works as a gentle exfoliant to remove the top layer of skin and helps speed up cell turnover.

This peel can instantly help your skin look glowing and fresh and ready for other skincare treatments.

#4—RETINOL

We love retinols because their number one job is exfoliation and getting rid of dead skin cells.

Retinol—a naturally occurring form of Vitamin A—targets cell turnover and aids in exfoliation, which is a major step in skin prep.

If you’re looking for an anti-aging and skin prep product all in one, look no further then retinol.

#5—TRY DERMAPLANING

If you’ve never tried dermaplaning it’s like an exfoliation ninja.

A sterile, surgical scalpel is used to “shave” the surface of the skin. Dermaplaning gently removes dead skin and “peach fuzz” hair off the top layer of skin.

Leaving you with skin that is fresh and ready to absorb all the good stuff that can aide in skincare and healthy aging.

If you want to remove dead skin cells, reduce scarring, fine lines, and wrinkles as well as improve your skin tone and texture a chemical peel may be just what your skin needs.

Especially if you take into consideration these 5 tips for skin prep.

And if you’re looking for a professional to help guide you in this process, the Renew Crew is here to help you meet your skincare goals!

Our Favorite Tips to Prevent and Treat “Maskne”

Thu, 27 Aug 2020 20:43:50 GMT

Our Favorite Tips to Prevent and Treat “Maskne”

As if this year hasn’t been handful enough, we now have “maskne” to add to our, “Are you serious, 2020?” list.

Maskne (it’s simply mask and acne combined) can be brought on by friction, skin type, and other challenges that may arise when wearing a mask for extended periods.

We’ve definitely seen this on the rise at Renew with our clients and want to bring you our favorite tips to prevent and treat “maskne”.

Why Do I Have “Maskne” And Others Don’t?

Even though maskne can share the (not so) love equally, it can choose favorites (just like acne ).

You may be at higher risk if you experience skin challenges like—

• Skin Sensitivity

• Rashes/Bumps

• Perioral Dermatitis

• Eczema

• Rosacea

• Acne

• Allergies

In addition, if you’re a healthcare professional—or someone who uses a mask extensively—your risk of maskne may increase.

“Maskne” Prevention

Even if your skin’s in the high-risk category, you have options when it comes to prevention.

CHOOSE YOUR MASK MATERIAL WISELY

Although you may not have a choice if you work in a healthcare setting, if you can be picky— cotton may be your best bet.

Cotton is breathable, has less friction, and may minimize skin irritation.

KNOW YOUR ALLERGIES

Don’t forget—especially if you purchase a mask—it can come with pre-treated chemicals, or made with synthetic fabrics.

These chemicals—including highly fragrant laundry detergents—can be a major skin irritant.

It’s best to opt for cloth masks that are natural fiber and unscented laundry products.

WASH YOUR MASK

A major culprit for maskne is a dirty mask—especially if you wear makeup.

Wash your mask’s regularly—again, with an unscented detergent—and store them in a sanitary bag for safekeeping.

CLEANSE AND MOISTURIZE

Although you don’t want to over-cleanse (and risk disrupting your natural skin barrier) you do want to be vigilant of cleansing your face before and after you wear your mask.

This especially goes for any healthcare professional. I mean, what feels better than taking your mask off after a long day at work and cleansing your face? One of the best feelings.

Don’t forget to follow cleansing with moisturizing.

This will keep your skin balanced and protect against friction and irritation that can lead to maskne.

SKIP THE MAKE-UP

Keep the sunscreen and tinted moisturizer, but you can kick your make-up—especially the area where your mask is—to the curb.

Make-up can irritate the skin and create clogged pores which may lead to a breakout (and we know you don’t want that!).

If you love make-up or the simple act of getting ready every day—focus on your eye area (get your eyebrows done; refresh your Botox; make those eyes pop!).

“Maskne” Treatment

Even with knowing your skin triggers and utilizing preventative measures, maskne can still rear its irritating head.

Here are some treatment options if prevention isn’t quite cutting it for you—

SPOT TREATMENT

If acne is flaring it may be time to bring in the big acne products for treatment. Speak with your skincare professional for what works best for your unique skin type.

TIME TO TALK TO A SKINCARE PROFESSIONAL

Between prevention and spot treatment, it may be time for you to talk to a skincare professional.

Perhaps you have skin build-up and clogged pores and need an enzyme or chemical peel.

Maybe your skin is ready for medical-grade products.

Or if nothing else, it’s time to work out your skincare challenges with—or without—maskne.

Whatever your skincare dilemma, a Medical Aesthetician (like Charmayne) can lead you and your skin in the right direction.

2020 may have thrown us for a loop or 2 (or 3, 4, 5!), but we’re still here—maskne and all.

Keep in mind our favorite tips to prevent and treat “maskne” and if it all gets too overwhelming, remember everything’s temporary and take a drink from your gratitude glass and cheers to the beauty in your life!

Ask Charmayne | What Is Fractora for Skin Rejuvenation?

Thu, 30 Jul 2020 17:54:50 GMT

Ask Charmayne | What Is Fractora for Skin Rejuvenation?

Q: Charmayne, I’ve heard of Fractora for skin rejuvenation, what can this treatment actually do for me? This girl wants her skin to glow!

You and me both!

We all want that dewy, glowing skin, right?

I mean, who doesn’t want to look like they just stepped off the runway. But without all the heavy makeup, bright lights, and walking in heels all day.

The good news is, Fractora can definitely help with skincare goals and you don’t have to be a model to get them!

Let’s talk about Fractora for skin rejuvenation—what it is, who it’s for, the benefits, and what it can be combined with to make that glow pop even more.

What Is Fractora?

“Fractora is a fractional skin resurfacing and subdermal tissue coagulation device that bridges the gap between fractional lasers and surgical procedures. Treatments improve skin appearance by remodeling tissue and collagen.” -- INMODE (makers of Fractora)

Ok, if you’re not a doctor or aesthetician, here’s what it means in terms you can understand:

Fractora is a non-surgical marriage between microneedling and radiofrequency (RF) that aims to improve your skin’s appearance by resurfacing and building up that collagen we all want more of.

Basically, Fractora is the ultimate in skin rejuvenation .

And my favorite for acne scarring!

Who Is Fractora For?

What I love about this treatment, is the fact it can treat most skin types and NOT leave post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, including those with dark skin types.

You don’t always see that with skincare technology today, especially when it comes to post-treatment affects.

Fractora is ideal for someone:

• Looking for bright and rejuvenated skin, but without the surgical facelift

• With lax skin

• Superficial texture challenges

• With mild to moderate fine lines and/or wrinkles

Benefits of Fractora

This treatment is multi-functional because it not only supports your face and skincare goals, it can be safely used on other areas of your body like the hands, neck, back, and chest.

FRACTORA CAN TREAT:

• Sun damage

• Hyperpigmentation

• Scarring (acne, trauma, etc.)

• Broken and visible veins

• Active acne

• Fine lines and wrinkles

You can also add PRP (platelet-rich plasma) to this service for added healing and improvement of skin!

Results of Fractora

Each treatment is customized to your individual skincare needs and each session can take around 30-minutes to an hour, depending on the topical anesthetic used to help with any pain or sensitivity.

Some may experience swelling or redness at the treated areas, but that will lessen over time as your body heals.

Most people see results in one session, but around 3-4 sessions are typically when you see the most improvement in your skin.

You’ll continue to see lasting improvements over time (we’re talking months) as new collagen is created.

To maintain results follow-up treatments are recommended with a personalized skincare plan.

Fractora vs. Microneedling

Trust me, I love microneedling .

But I also love Fractora, too.

Both treatments allow the body to heal itself through micro-wounds that produce new elastin and collagen, not to mention what it can do for scarring and pigmentation.

The biggest difference is Fractora uses microneedling AND radiofrequency which allows it to treat more skincare challenges in fewer treatments.

Recovery and downtime will differ between the services, so it’s best to have a conversation with your skincare professional about which one is right for your skin type and lifestyle.

Alright, I think that about sums up Fractora for skin rejuvenation!

It’s a perfect non-surgical treatment to help get that glow we’re all looking for—runway not needed.

Do you think Fractora is right for you?

If you’re ready for non-surgical skin rejuvenation call Renew Medical Spa today—we can’t wait to help you glow!

Coping & COVID | Tips for Your Mental Health

Thu, 16 Jul 2020 02:55:13 GMT

Coping & COVID | Tips for Your Mental Health

Have you hit your wall yet?

You know the wall.

The one between mental exhaustion and being in shock when your Amazon order arrives, and you don’t recall ordering THAT much toilet paper. (Your neighbors know where to go if they run out!)

Between coping with COVID and finding a “new normal” it can be exhausting both mentally and physically.

Your wellness is crucial right now (nothing says stress like everything changing overnight), so here are a few tips that we hope help your mental health!

Coping & COVID

Yes, things are opening up again, but for most people that doesn’t mean life is 100% back to pre-COVID times.

It often seems like there’s a giant question mark looming over everyday life and because of so much change it can be hard to make decisions.

Coping during COVID can be a struggle, especially if you’re wondering if your kids will ever get to experience a “normal” school day again.

Life can be tough, but we can be tougher, right?

Right.

So, let’s talk about what we CAN do to cope during these times.

Tips for Your Mental Health

KNOW WHAT YOU CAN CONTROL

If your anxiety is through the roof and you have trouble concentrating or sleeping (or both), it’s time to look at control…what you can and cannot control.

This is a great first step to look at when managing your mental health .

It’s time to ask yourself: What can I control in this situation?

If you can’t directly control it, it’s time to be like Elsa from Frozen and LET. IT. GO.

Things you CAN control: Yourself.

Things you CANNOT control: Other people.

Simple, right? But not always so easy to implement.

Pose the question to yourself about what you can control and proceed from there.

Sometimes that little reminder can be the difference between massive irritation and acceptance of the situation.

DECREASE SCREEN TIME

If the news and social media get your heart racing (and not in a good way), it’s time to back away from the screen .

Yes, it’s important to know what is going on in the world, especially your local news in these ever-changing times.

No, checking your social media so much your thumb is sore, and staring at your TV until your eyes cross is not what your mental health needs.

Give yourself limits to how much screen time is actually healthy for you.

A morning (no, not when you first get up either), afternoon, and evening check-in is ample time to see what is going on in the world around you.

Set your phone timer for 15-20 minutes if you need a hard limit to remind you to ditch the screen time.

CULTIVATE YOUR SUPPORT SYSTEM

Now is definitely not the time to be everything to everyone.

If your friend or family member won’t stop talking politics, or you consistently feel even worse after a conversation with someone—give yourself a mental health break from that person.

Decline the next coffee date, or mention you only have so much time and you prefer not to talk about COVID, politics, or whatever keeps you up at night.

This mental health break from certain people doesn’t have to last forever—you can pick back up whenever you feel ready to.

It’s more important than ever to cultivate a support system that fills you up, not brings you down.

CHOOSE HEALTHY OPTIONS

If you can choose healthy food and exercise options—in addition to nurturing your mental health—you just received all the gold stars!

A healthy lifestyle with movement, whole foods, high-grade supplements, and proper hydration (and no Vodka doesn’t count!) can truly support your mental health during these times.

You don’t have to be perfect with your healthy options.

Take a walk, choose quality nutrients more than not and guzzle water before you opt for the Vodka and your body—and mind—will thank you.

Ok, how do you feel now—did your anxiety go down just a little? Do you feel like even implementing ONE of these tips can improve your mental health?

We sure hope so!

And if you need an extra mental boost, think of your favorite booty-shaking song and bust a move (in your head or in your kitchen) and shake it out.

Acne Treatment Options

Wed, 24 Jun 2020 19:11:21 GMT

Acne Treatment Options

Are you baffled that you struggle with acne?

Whether you're a teenager or adult, acne can be a massive thorn to confidence and understanding why pimples pop up for you and not your friend.

If you've ever cursed your skin because of acne, we have acne treatment options that can (hopefully) bring you some relief and boost your confidence!

What Is Acne?

If you want to get really nerdy, Acne vulgaris is the medical name for acne .

When oil glands are inflamed and block pores, acne occurs. This typically shows up on your face (as you know), back (the dreaded "bacne"), and chest.

Due to hair follicles and the potential for inflammation, if you have hair--including peach fuzz--on any area of your body, acne can show up.

Why Do I Break Out?

This is where a lot of frustration happens in questioning why you're breaking out .

While there's no one-size-fits-all answer to why acne happens to some people and not others, there are areas to look at.

HORMONES

Hormones don’t just stop surging after puberty; they have a way of working their way back into your life – especially if you’re a woman that has a menstrual cycle.

Women are more affected by acne than men and part of that reason can be due to hormone fluctuations from birth control. When women get on birth control at a young age and then get off of it a decade or later – your hormones need time to balance out.

STRESS

Cortisol – a stress hormone – increases when you experience stress. And in a world that is full of hustle and bustle; stress can be found around every corner.

When this stress hormone spikes, it can increase oil production and in turn, cause acne.

If you’re looking for a mysterious culprit to adult acne – dig deeper because stress might be playing a major part in your breakouts.

LIFESTYLE

Dietary changes like reducing or cutting out dairy and refined sugar, as well as choosing grass-fed, hormone-free animal proteins can lessen breakouts.

If you live in the city, pollution can add to an acne breakout, as well as weather. Be sure to maintain a consistent skin regimen and be aware of the upcoming seasons, so you can prepare your skin.

While there may be other factors to adult acne, this is a good place to start when dissecting what may be the culprit in your breakouts.

Acne Treatment Options

Now that you've seen why you potentially break out, let's look at what acne treatment options are available for you.

WORK W/ A SKINCARE PROFESSIONAL

Not only can you get a customized skin care regimen when you work with a licensed esthetician and/or doctor, but you’ll also have access to more medical-grade products (depending on the skincare expert you work with).

And if you're experiencing hormonal imbalances, working with a doctor can help you decipher which course of action for your skincare is best for you.

You may think it's easy to experiment at home with acne treatment options, but it's actually easier to work with someone who specializes in acne and has case studies and programs to help your unique situation.

SKIN HEALTH PROGRAMS FOR ACNE

Medical-grade products can target areas of inflammation – not only for treatment but for prevention as well.

Be sure to work with a physician/medical spa that specializes in these particular products.

SUPPLEMENTS

Understanding what is causing your acne and supporting that cause with supplements can be beneficial.

High-quality omega-3 fish oil, zinc, and probiotics are known to support healthy skin.

Speak with your skincare professional who can recommend a specific regimen for you.

In addition, they can steer you away from any vitamin or supplement that may increase skin inflammation ('cause we definitely don't want more of that!).

We know it's easy to find tons of acne treatment options on the Internet today. (What can't you find on the Internet today?!)

That's why we recommend working with a skincare professional that is not just knowledgeable about acne, but also the factors that could play into your breakouts.

You don't have to play the guessing game with your acne alone--work with a skincare expert, be patient and most of all, be kind to yourself!

Men's Health Month | How to Jumpstart Your Health

Tue, 16 Jun 2020 17:48:25 GMT

Men's Health Month | How to Jumpstart Your Health

Do you know women typically outlive men by five years and make more yearly doctors' visits than men do, by almost half?

Why do men have a hard time taking care of themselves, you're probably wondering?

It can be the "tough guy" approach to life that often overlooks emotional or physical pain and when that happens it's hard to participate in preventative health (where early detection can be key).

Because June is Men's Health Month, we have a guide for all of you men ready to jumpstart your health and the women that love you (so they can support your journey, too!).

How To Jumpstart Your Health

Men's Health Month is here to create awareness around prevention, early detection, and how to be the healthiest version of you.

Whether you keep up with your doctor appointments, or you've missed your fair share, it's not too late to jumpstart your health.

Here are three tips to get you started today.

YEARLY PHYSICALS

Regular check-ups can be crucial for early detection and symptom management.

The most difficult part of a yearly physical may actually be just showing up for the appointment.

Talk to your healthcare professional about any concerns especially around a particular disease because if caught early, they're more treatable.

HORMONE OPTIMIZATION

Let's talk about libido!

Did you know low libido and erectile dysfunction can be symptoms of low testosterone and only 5% of men will receive help like hormone replacement therapy to support this challenge?

Low testosterone doesn't just affect libido, it can show up in:

• Low energy levels

• Insomnia

• Weight gain

• Brain fog

• Loss of muscle spasm

• Erectile dysfunction

• Joint pain

• Mood disturbances

• Irritability

• Inflammatory response in the brain

If you do experience any of these symptoms, you're not doomed.

BioTE® (bio-identical hormone pellet therapy) can be a solution and your happy hormone optimizer, in addition to Nutraceuticals --specific supplements that help maintain normal hormone balance.

If you do seek the BioTE® route for optimizing testosterone and it is right for you, many patients report:

• Less body fat, especially around the mid-section

• Increased energy levels

• Retention of muscle mass

• Elevated mood

• Increased libido and sexual function

SKINCARE AND WELLNESS

We know you work hard.

So why don't you treat yourself to some self-care like your skincare and wellness for your mental and physical health?

When you're able to take time for you and relax, this promotes a world where you're not constantly in work mode and you can decompress.

• Schedule a skincare treatment and we promise you may become a skincare enthusiast after you get to melt your worries away and walk out looking younger and refreshed!

• Plan a massage and go deeper into relaxation. You may just start getting a massage on a regular basis after that.

• Make sleep a priority ! Not only is sleep important for your mental health, but it's also crucial for your immune system, brain function, and hormones.

If taking better care of yourself is on your list, let these three tips guide you.

Don't forget to make your yearly physical and wellness appointment and be open about your concerns (there are no taboo topics).

Consider hormone optimization for low testosterone and integrate more self-care like your skincare and wellness into your life.

It's never too late to jumpstart your health, so what are you waiting for?!

Soft Opening Tuesday, May 5th!

Wed, 20 May 2020 07:40:16 GMT

Hiiiiiiii!

Can you feel our excitement?

As we write this we feel like we're welcoming back each one of you to Renew and that makes our hearts very happy (we hope it does the same for your heart as well!).

First of all...how are you?

How has the last 6 weeks treated your world?

Most of all, we hope you're safe and healthy.

Whatever your experience during COVID-19, we want you to know you're not alone. We're in this with you!

Second, thank you for your patience and understanding during this time.

We're sorry for any lapse in communication the last 6-weeks as we're all truly figuring this out together and things are changing moment-by-moment.

Ok, now onto the soft opening details we're sure you're waiting for.

Soft Opening Guidelines

Limited services w/ Charmayne and Dr. Elijah (we'll be diligently working out all the kinks this week)
Limited Services Include

BioTE®
Body Contouring
Botox (forehead/crows feet)
Laser Hair Removal (no face area)
Medical Weight Loss
Vaginal Rejuvenation w/ MonaLisa Touch®
Virtual Consultations Product

Product

Our ZO Skin Health and Osmosis MD Skincare products are well stocked and ready for you. We offer curbside delivery, so all you need to do is give us a call and place your product order and we'll run it out to your car for you.

Gift Cards

As always, we offer gift cards for purchase. These are a great idea if you're waiting for our other services to open (hello, facials) and want to treat yourself or someone else to much-needed self-care.

Contactless Payment

Have peace of mind knowing that contactless payment is an option for you at Renew.

Safety

These safety guidelines keep both you and the Renew Crew safe:

Your car is the new waiting room (for now)! Please wait in your car until we call you to come in for your service
A mask shall be worn at all times by both service-provider and client (If you don't have one, we will provide one for you)
Renew offers hand sanitizer and air purifiers will be running at all times
Your temperature will be taken upon entry of Renew
A COVID-19 consent form must be signed prior to service
If you feel sick PLEASE reschedule for the health and safety of everyone

As Charmayne points out , "It's our time to shine with Botox (around our forehead and eyes) because that's all people are going to see with our masks on!"

And speaking of Botox, if you receive Botox in the month of May you'll receive a FREE ZO® product sample of their Cleanser, Exfoliating Polish, or Complexion Renewal Pads.

We know this a lot of information, so please feel free to call us this week if you have any questions.

Thank you, again, for being part of our journey.

We can't wait to help you feel relaxed and rejuvenated again!

With gratitude,

The Renew Crew

COVID-19: Tips & Encouragement from Dr. Elijah & The Renew Crew

Wed, 20 May 2020 04:23:29 GMT

Hi!

Myself (Dr. Elijah) and the Renew Crew wanted to reach out to you, our clients, during this COVID-19 (also known as coronavirus) and ever-changing time that we're in.

We especially wanted to talk about best practices we're ensuring at Renew for a safe environment, as well as best tips to keep you vigilant and healthy as we all walk in uncharted territory — together.

What Renew Is Doing

We continue to follow DORA (Department of Regulatory Agencies) guidelines and keep Renew a sanitary environment before, during and after each treatment by utilizing --

• medical-grade disinfectants

• boosting our disinfecting at this time by cleaning our front desk and waiting room, hourly

• diligent hand-washing

• hand sanitizer is readily available for you throughout the office

• diffusers are used to combat contaminants in the air

• Renew Crew is encouraged to stay home at any signs or symptoms of the cold or flu

Tips For You

We're sure you're aware of the extra precautions to take during this time, like social distancing, washing hands for at least 20 seconds, using hand sanitizer and staying home as soon as you experience any signs or symptoms of the cold or flu.

HERE ARE A FEW OTHER TIPS TO KEEP YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM HEALTHY —

• drink plenty of water (at least 1/2 your body weight in ounces a day)

• eat whole, unprocessed food as often as possible

• get restful sleep! If ever there was a time to hit pause in life, this is it -- rest, don't push yourself too hard or skip out on sleep

• if you're not aware of our wellness line of Osmosis products, they offer an Immune Activator to boost your immune system (these are in our immune-boosting arsenal right now; give us a call and we can have these items ready for you to pick up!)

• stay calm, yet vigilant and limit your news consumption time, so your nervous system doesn't get overloaded

• if you have an appointment with us, please use your best judgment for the safety and health of you and the Renew Crew -- don't hesitate to reschedule if you're not feeling well, or getting over the cold or flu.

What If I Do Feel Sick?

At this time, if you do feel symptoms of a cough, fever, or other respiratory problems, it is recommended that you call your healthcare provider for further direction and maintain separation from others.

Please visit the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment website for updated guidance on COVID-19 testing.

We're In This Together

In uncertain times it's easy to pin-point the negative, so we encourage you to be different and consider the positive.

Help where you can -- reach out to your neighbor, check-in on your elderly relatives, and take care of you and your loved ones.

Buy some board games and create memories... because we're all in this together!

Deep breaths, elbow-bumps, and hand sanitizers,

The Renew Crew

5 Reasons Why Sleep Is Important for Your Health

Wed, 20 May 2020 03:55:14 GMT

Ever have that “I woke up on the wrong side of the bed” feeling from lack of sleep?

It happens.

We stay up too late; we toss and turn from brain overload; we just can’t stay asleep.

There are many reasons why sleep evades us, but there are even more reasons why sleep is important for your health.

Let’s talk about 5 reasons why it’s time to make sleep a wellness priority.

5 Reasons Why Sleep Is Important For Your Health

Before we dig into the why behind sleep, let’s talk about the what.

What makes for healthy sleep?

As an adult, 6-9 hours (depending on your biology, etc.) of restful (goes to bed easily, stays asleep, or goes back to sleep without difficulty) of sleep is recommended for optimum function.

If that doesn’t sound like your routine, read on to find out why better sleep is important for your health.

#1 — HEALTHY BRAIN FUNCTION

Want to help your memory and brain function? Get good sleep .

Sleep deprivation can feel like you’re starving your brain (poor concentration, bad mood, etc.)

Tip: Make your brain feel like it’s firing on all cylinders — and recall that barista’s name — all with a good night’s sleep.

#2 — KNOCK YOUR CRAVINGS

Poor sleep can lead to weight fluctuations due to slower metabolism and feeling sluggish.

The next thing you know you’re staring at the inside of your refrigerator at midnight pondering a grilled cheese sandwich.

Tip: Focus on restful sleep and feel comfortable in your body and full of energy again.

#3 — DO THE HAPPY DANCE

When sleep evades you, so do your emotions and happiness.

You can be quick to anger, frustration, and it may feel like you’re on a rollercoaster ride of emotions.

Tip: Hop off the bad sleep train and start to do the happy dance. While sleep may not be a cure for all bad moods, it can start to even out the erratic waves.

#4 — HEALTHY IMMUNE SYSTEM

When your body is working overtime compensating for lack of sleep, so is your immune system.

Tip: What did mom always say when you were sick? Rest and help your immune system stay strong and healthy.

#5 — ROCK YOUR WORKOUT

Because you lack sleep, your workouts aren’t what they could be — you’re not on top of your game, and you feel it.

Tip: With extra ZZZ’s, your focus and accuracy could improve your workout performance and you’ll feel better about time spent working out.

(BONUS REASON #6 — BEAUTY REST = BETTER SKIN HEALTH!)

How To Get Better Sleep

Now that you know the importance of sleep for your health, are you still wondering how to get better sleep?

If these reasons pique your interest, but you're still left baffled by your sleep routine, it’s time to get some help.

• Assess your sleep hygiene (TV’s and screen’s, caffeine too close to bedtime, etc.)

• Ask for help (see your healthcare professional)

• Get your hormones checked because they can play a role in sleep disturbances

Ready to incorporate better sleep into your wellness routine?

Keep these important tips in mind when you need extra help with catching those ZZZ’s.

How To Make Self-Care A Priority

Mon, 03 Feb 2020 11:11:35 GMT

How To Make Self-Care A Priority

Did you declare this year the year of self-care for you?

If you didn’t place self-care on your list of priorities—have you thought about what more self-care would look like in your life?

We know the use of “self-care” gets thrown around a lot, but for good reason.

As a society—and especially as women—we tend to place ourselves last and end up paying the price for it.

Exhaustion and fatigue become our best friends and we end up wondering, “How did I get here?”

When we try to understand how we got to the place of utter fatigue—lack of self-care is usually part of that answer.

Let’s find out what self-care really is and how to make self-care a priority in your life.

What Is Self-Care?

Self-care is the act of taking care of your physical, mental and emotional health.

That includes doing things that will fill you up, not deplete you.

And self-care that nourishes you is crucial for a healthy mind, body, and spirit.

Why Self-Care's Important

Between maintaining relationships, taking care of your family, and nurturing your career, it can feel like some days you’re barely keeping your head above water.

That’s why self-care is important and can help you cope with the stressors of life and work towards being as healthy as possible—whatever comes your way.

How To Make Self-Care A Priority

#1 — DECIDE WHAT SELF-CARE IS TO YOU

Yes, self-care nourishes your mental, physical and emotional health, but what does that mean to you?

Maybe you want to move your body more.

Maybe you want to spend a Saturday morning with yourself.

Maybe you want to begin therapy.

Whatever you think will nourish you is where you’ll want to begin your self-care journey.

#2 — MAKE SELF-CARE TIME NON-NEGOTIABLE

You know how your partner and kids know you have to go to work every morning?

Let’s enact that same non-negotiable with self-care + begin to keep one simple promise to yourself.

Speak to those close to you about your non-negotiable self-care time.

For example, if you want every Saturday morning from 9am – 12pm to yourself, let your loved ones know you’d appreciate their support in keeping that promise to yourself.

#3 — SELF-CARE IDEAS

If you think this is all sounds great but need ideas around ways to take care of you, here’s a list to get you started.

• Movement (find out what physical exercise speaks to you and start moving)

• Sleep Health (get yourself some zzz’s and a routine)

• Food Health (start with adding one healthy item and keep going)

• Boundaries (create these for the health of your relationships and learn to say “no”)

• Spa Time (we’re biased, but a one-hour facial or massage can do wonders for your overall health)

Bonus Tip: When considering your self-care, a question to ask yourself is — “What would Future _____ (insert your name) thank me for?”

Take action today — right now — so your future self can thank you.

Ready to make time for you? The Renew Crew is here to help.

Schedule a FREE skincare and wellness consultation today, so you can start to feel comfortable inside and out!

Ask Charmayne | Is Non-Surgical Body Contouring Right For Me?

Tue, 21 Jan 2020 10:54:05 GMT

Ask Charmayne | Is Non-Surgical Body Contouring Right For Me?

Q: CHARMAYNE — I EAT HEALTHY, EXERCISE, AND STILL HAVE AREAS ON MY BODY THAT I’D LOVE TO GET IN BETTER SHAPE. I HEAR BODY CONTOURING CAN HELP WITH THAT BUT IS IT RIGHT FOR AN ATHLETIC BUILD LIKE MINE?

You’re not alone; I get this question a lot.

I believe the misconception is people think you have to be a certain body type to try body contouring and that just isn’t true.

Most body types — including an athletic one like yours — can benefit.

That’s what makes this service so unique!

Let’s find out why non-surgical body contouring can be right for you.

What Is Non-Surgical Body Contouring?

Non-surgical body contouring is often referred to as non-surgical fat reduction which focuses on the reduction or removal of obstinate areas of fat (you know the ones!), with the goal of contouring particular parts on the body.

This could be an ideal option for those areas on your body that you’d “love to get in better shape”.

There are several options for treatment that include –

• Cryolipolysis (freezing fat)

• Laser lipolysis (laser energy and controlled heat)

• Radiofrequency lipolysis (ultrasound and controlled heating)

• Injection lipolysis (injectable deoxycholic acid, also known as Kybella ® )

At Renew, we use truSculpt® iD (also known as “melting the fat”) which uses heat control and Radiofrequency Energy to optimize efficacy and patient comfort.

What Is truSculpt® iD?

We fell in love with this technology and knew it was right for our practice and clients.

• truSculpt® iD uses innovative Monopolar RF technology to selectively target fat and therapeutically heat it — until fat cells are eliminated by passing through the body naturally.

• Average of 24% fat reduction is achieved in just one treatment.

• The treatment has minimal discomfort and has been compared to a hot stone massage.

• There is no visible downtime after the procedure and normal activity can be resumed immediately.

• The treatment time is dependent on the treatment size and how many areas are treated. Treatment time is typically 15 to 30 minutes to treat the abdomen and flanks.

• Typically, only 1 treatment is needed. Maximum results are visible after 12 weeks.

Additional treatments may be required to achieve the personalized results you desire.

Is Non-Surgical Body Contouring Right For Me?

Now that you know what body contouring is and the type of technology we use at Renew, there are still some factors to consider.

FACTORS TO CONSIDER

WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS?

If you’re looking for a quick fix, this is not it. (Is anything, really, a quick fix?)

Body contouring is meant to work with your healthy lifestyle, so you can sculpt the body you work so hard for.

One treatment typically yields visible results after 12 weeks, and more treatments may be needed.

Just like food and exercise — body contouring takes time.

LIFESTYLE

If you’re just starting out on a new, healthy lifestyle — with whole foods and more movement — we applaud you.

That takes time, dedication and effort — congratulations — keep going!

A body contouring session can be just what you need to kick your new healthy habit off, as well as maintain it over time.

Body contouring — in no way — is a substation for a healthy lifestyle; it’s simply a wellness tool that can help you work toward your ideal body.

I hope this information helps you understand body contouring better and how it works with your unique body.

Please don’t hesitate to ask me or the Renew Crew any questions — we’d love to help.

You can also schedule a FREE truSculpt® iD consultation to find out if body contouring is right for you.

Benefits of A Medical Grade Facial

Mon, 13 Jan 2020 10:34:58 GMT

Benefits of A Medical Grade Facial

You made a promise you’d take better care of your skin and treat yourself to some serious self-care this year.

So, naturally, you wonder where to start with that promise — a facial seems like the easy choice, right?

As you peruse facial options, you begin to see different choices and think — are all facials created equal?

The short answer is no.

Let us explain what your facial options are, why they’re not all created equal, and the benefits of a medical-grade facial.

What Is A Medical Grade Facial?

A medical-grade facial is a results-driven, all the bells and whistles, we’re-going-to-repair-and-restore your skin facial.

It does whatever it needs to do to get your skin to look and feel healthy.

Medi-facials target your specific skin challenges (fine lines, wrinkles, sunspots, hyperpigmentation, rosacea, acne, etc.) and can use a combination of active ingredients and medical-grade equipment (think IPL for sun damage , FORMA for skin tightening, etc.) to achieve those results.

Which oftentimes differs from a spa facial (which has its benefits as well!).

Medical Grade Facial vs. Spa Facial

The largest difference between a medical-grade facial and a spa facial is the results.

Medical-grade facials aim for results; spa facials aim for relaxation.

And whatever your skin health goals are will help determine which choice is best for you.

Your goal may be to have a relaxing facial only.

Perhaps you don’t have certain skin challenges that require a more medical-grade approach — and that’s completely okay.

Different times in your skincare journey will call for various approaches for the health of your skin — choose wisely.

Medical Grade Facial Benefits

First, let’s talk about what you can expect at a medical-grade facial —

• PROPER SKINCARE ANALYSIS

A medical doctor, dermatologist, or medical aesthetician will properly analyze your skin and discuss with you their recommendations for the best treatment options.

Sometimes, it takes just the right skincare analysis and consultation of your overall wellness to give you the answers you’re seeking.

• CUSTOMIZED TREATMENT PLAN

Now that you and your skincare professional are on the same page, it’s time for a customized treatment plan.

This typically starts with a facial that’s tailored to your unique skin (and may include a combination of certain enzymes, peptides and/or added services like LED Light Therapy , microneedling, or IPL for targeted issues).

AND THEN IT’S TIME TO LAY BACK AND ENJOY THE BENEFITS OF A MEDICAL GRADE FACIAL —

• Results-driven

• Treats skin challenges like rosacea, acne, scarring, fine lines, wrinkles, dehydrated skin, sun damage, pigmentation

• Use of medical-grade ingredients and equipment for effectiveness to treat skin health

• Deep cleansing without disrupting the natural barrier function of your skin

• Extractions of blackheads, whiteheads, and congested pores

• Exfoliation with the use of chemical peels, enzymes and/or microdermabrasion which are effective for skin renewal and better product absorption

• Hydration is crucial to the medical-grade facial and will protect your skin and allow for healthy progress

• After-care instructions and home care products (that you can buy in-office) to continue your customized skin care regimen

Keep in mind, you may need several customized treatments, or maintain a healthy facial schedule to see better results and reveal that glow.

Have any questions about which facial is right for you?

Feel free to give us a call or schedule your FREE skin care analysis consultation!

How to Make A Fresh Start for The New Year

Mon, 06 Jan 2020 10:18:24 GMT

How to Make A Fresh Start for The New Year

We’re officially in a new year (even more significant; a brand-new decade).

The bubbly has popped.

The resolutions and “new year, new me” mantras are out there.

And now — a week or so into the new year — how do you feel about all that sparkle?

Has it left the building? Or are you still riding high on “new” everything?

Whether you’re not feeling the “new” anymore, or you feel like you’re just getting started – we have some ideas to help you make a fresh start for the new year.

The "Fresh Start Effect"

Have you heard of the “fresh start effect”?

According to researchers, people have the likelihood of reaching their goals if followed by a temporal landmark (i.e. New Year’s).

The landmark doesn’t have to be New Year’s; it can be your birthday, a new month, a new quarter, heck, even a Monday works, too.

The “fresh start effect” uses these landmarks to show a distinction of the past (potentially not where you wanted to be in, say, your health) and where you want to be going forward with your goals.

Literally, the meaning of “new year, new me”.

Since it’s the new year, we thought it’d be the perfect time for a fresh start .

How To Make A Fresh Start for The New Year

If this “fresh start effect” speaks to you, now is a perfect time to wipe the previous years’ slate clean and start this one brand new.

Here are 3 tips to get your fresh start motor running!

TAKE INVENTORY OF WHAT IS WORKING

Before we get into goals, let’s first talk about what IS working in your life.

This area is often overlooked because we’re so focused on what ISN’T working and what to do about it.

Take into account the areas in your life that make you proud.

It can be your relationship, your child(ren), your career, your health, your personal development.

Hold gratitude for those areas and go back to them as often as you need – because balance!

WHAT NEEDS IMPROVEMENT

What areas of your life need improvement?

(Tip: If you need help figuring that out — look at these areas: relationships, health, career, personal development.)

And try not to be too general by saying just “health”. Get specific .

What in your health needs improvement — Food choice? Exercise? Condition management?

Write down 1-3 things in each area that you want to improve (psst: if your health is stellar, own that! You don’t have to write down something just to do it).

CREATE GOALS

Now that you know where you want to improve, focus on the how (goals) and most importantly – let everything that didn’t work for you in the past–go.

That’s the beauty of a fresh start.

If you want to cut down on sugar this year, make a plan to do that.

If you want to start an exercise program, figure out what would work best for you (and not for your BFF who makes it look so easy).

If you want to embark on a new career, start the search for what steps you’d need to do that and plan accordingly.

If you want to create more self-care, book a facial and massage appointment.

Don’t let the past get in your way.

Allow your present and future to be what you want it to be.

And as always, The Renew Crew is here to help you with your fresh start.

Whether it’s improving your skin health or taking more time for wellness this year — we love to be a part of your journey!

Holiday Skin Health and Wellness Tips

Mon, 09 Dec 2019 09:55:30 GMT

Holiday Skin Health and Wellness Tips

‘Tis the season for Christmas trees, eggnog, twinkling lights, and acne breakouts.

Wait, scratch that last one.

Who wants a breakout during the holidays? Nobody.

Unfortunately, it happens to the best of us jolly folks.

The good news is we have skin health and wellness tips that can help you not only look your best but feel your best this holiday season!

Holiday Skin Health and Wellness Tips

SLEEP. SLEEP. SLEEP.

This might be the most exciting time of the year for some folks, but that doesn’t mean you should skip your sleep , or stay awake for Ol’ Saint Nick.

When your body doesn’t get enough rest and quality sleep, not only do you feel sluggish and tired — those bags under your eyes start to show and you begin to resemble a ghost. Not a cute look for those holiday parties and Christmas cards you want to send out.

Make rest and sleep a priority — your brain, body, and face will thank you when you’re cuttin’ a rug on New Year’s Eve because you didn’t exhaust yourself this month.

WASH YOUR FACE

It’s so easy to skip the practice of washing your face before bedtime — especially during the holiday season.

The cost of allowing your face full of make-up to hit your pillow is dirt, clogged pores, premature aging, and potential breakouts.

And we know you don’t want that.

Because sleep is a priority for you this holiday (hint, hint – see above tip), make washing your face part of your nightly routine. Don’t overthink it — the simpler the routine the better!

HYDRATE. HYDRATE. HYDRATE.

Between the eggnog, apple cider, hot chocolate and boozy beverages that are offered to you — don’t forget to hydrate with water.

Not only will your water intake help you keep your brain and body feeling well hydrated, your skin will feel that as well (hydration helps keep the skin plump and moisturized internally).

Water tip: Aim for at least half your body weight in ounces a day (Ex. – body weight: 130 pounds; drink 65 ounces of water/day).

KEEP AN ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE

If you want to keep your mental health in check this holiday, focus on gratitude.

We know it’s not always an easy attitude to cultivate with so many potential stressors during this time.

However, if you can choose an attitude of gratitude even once, your mental health might just hug you for it.

Start now with choosing gratitude.

Remember the good qualities in people when you’re really feeling like you just can’t do the gratitude thing and keep in mind – this holiday season will come and go just as quickly as each one does!

What do you think — can these skin health and wellness tips help you from having a major breakout, or mental breakdown during the holidays?

We sure hope they can!

And don’t forget — if it all gets too much, Renew’s here to help you with your best skin health and wellness.

Get a facial.

Refresh your Botox.

Or just stop by and see us for some quiet time to yourself.

We’re here to be your sanctuary.

How to Cultivate Gratitude During the Holidays

Mon, 18 Nov 2019 09:42:03 GMT

How to Cultivate Gratitude During the Holidays

There’s no doubt gratitude plays a major role in our wellness and mental health.

We can feel the difference when we choose gratitude over having an attitude in our daily lives⏤although it can take some work to get in that gratitude mindset.

With Thanksgiving upon us, the holiday season can send us in different directions mentally.

Everyone has unique circumstances when it comes to the holiday season that can make us feel like we’re over-joyed one minute and wanting to pull our hair out the next.

When you feel like you’re about to lose it on Aunt Peggy or want to cancel Christmas dinner⏤we hope you keep these tips on how to cultivate gratitude during the holidays in mind.

How to Cultivate Gratitude During the Holidays

START NOW

Start a gratitude practice now.

Whether that means keeping a gratitude journal and entering at least 5 things you’re grateful for each day or using social media to share your appreciation—focus on what you do have.

Sometimes we focus only on what we don’t have and the next thing you know you’re going down a spiral of negativity.

By keeping a journal, you’re accountable to what is working in your life and what you do have.

And you can always read it when you’re feeling not so grateful!

REMEMBER THE GOOD QUALITIES

If you already feel overwhelmed about spending time with a particular relative or friend over the holiday season⏤remember their good qualities first.

If you played together as a kid and cherished that time⏤remember that.

If they make the best pecan pie in this world⏤remember that.

If they give the best hugs⏤remember that.

People may have qualities you’re not drawn to, but if you can remember their good qualities⏤and be grateful for them⏤Thanksgiving dinner might not be so bad (especially when you have some delicious pecan pie coming your way!).

IT’S ALL TEMPORARY

Oftentimes there’s so much anxiety around the holidays, we forget that this time of the year⏤just like most things in life⏤is temporary.

The holidays will come, and they will go just as quickly.

When we can take into consideration that this time is short and will be gone before we know it, it’s easier to be grateful for the little window of time we have⏤even if that means splitting your time between families and friends.

The holidays can be a tricky time full of a wide range of emotions.

Feel your feelings, move through them and then choose gratitude⏤even a sliver of it if you can.

A Special Thank You for YOU

Renew wouldn’t be what it is today—especially in our location in downtown Pueblo—if it wasn’t for your loyalty to us and most of all your commitment to taking care of you⏤both inside and out.

It’s an honor and privilege to serve you; we’re beyond thankful for that!

In Gratitude,

The Renew Crew

What Is Microdermabrasion?

Wed, 16 Oct 2019 08:20:59 GMT

What Is Microdermabrasion?

What if we said there’s a sandblaster for your skin – but in a good way?

Like a super exfoliator that leaves you with an even skin tone glow, less fine lines and say goodbye to clogged pores.

The treatment we’re referring to is microdermabrasion.

What Is Microdermabrasion?

Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive procedure that exfoliates and helps remove dead skin cells found on the surface of the skin – using ultra-fine crystals or a laser-cut diamond tipped wand – to reveal a bright, smooth complexion.

There’s no downtime and you can be in and out of our Renew office in Pueblo during your lunch hour. (Well, that’s if you don’t count chat time with your favorite skincare expert!).

"I love microdermabrasion because it's non-abrasive, no downtime and most skin types can benefit from this treatment. Because it helps remove dead skin cells + unclog pores, your complexion will reveal a bright, glowing appearance!"

— Tyra Torres | Esthetician and Lash Specialist at Renew

What Are The Benefits of Microdermabrasion?

The beauty of microdermabrasion is that you get a non-invasive procedure with results that look like it took a lot longer than your lunch hour to achieve healthy skin.

Because this super exfoliator removes all of the excess debris found on the surface of your skin – cell regeneration happens after it’s all been cleared away.

A blank slate for your skin to repair and reveal glowing skin over time.

MICRODERMABRASION SUPPORTS –

• Sun damage

• Clogged pores

• Hyperpigmentation

• Fine lines and wrinkles

• Blackheads and whiteheads

• Uneven skin texture

• Minor age spots and scars

*This service is NOT recommended for anyone with active rosacea or acne. Speak with your skin care professional if you have autoimmune disorders like lupus, dermatitis, psoriasis, and eczema and are thinking about receiving microdermabrasion.

Is Microdermabrasion Painful?

A microdermabrasion treatment is like watching toddlers run around right before their bedtime – potentially annoying and uncomfortable, but peace (and a beautiful complexion) are so close!

Your skin may be slightly red and tender after but will clear up quickly and that’s really the only downtime — if any — you’ll have.

How Many Treatments Will I Need?

This will depend on your skin type and individual desires.

Most often, microdermabrasion can be done on a routine schedule that’s unique to you.

One of the major benefits is when you combine microdermabrasion with a facial or added enzyme treatment. This gives ingredients an extra boost to absorb into your skin properly and create better results.

So, how does microdermabrasion sound?

Ready to get sandblasting?

Microdermabrasion is the perfect skincare tool to help exfoliate your skin and help you show off that glow about you – both inside and out!

Want to know if microdermabrasion is a fit for your skin?

Contact Renew for a skincare analysis, or book your microdermabrasion appointment, today.

Chemical Peels | Everything You Need to Know

Mon, 14 Oct 2019 09:11:05 GMT

Chemical Peels | Everything You Need to Know

What else do you have to look forward to in the fall and winter (other than pumpkins, scary movies and holidays)?

Chemical Peels!

We know that’s probably not the answer you were looking for, but if you enjoy a younger, smoother, more hydrated complexion — chemical peels are your winter best friend.

And we’re going to tell you why — including everything you need to know about chemical peels.

But first, we need to talk about skin prep for chemical peels.

Why Do I Need To Skin Prep For A Chemical Peel?

You want your chemical peel to work smarter for you, not harder, right?

That’s exactly what happens when you prep your skin for a chemical peel.

HERE ARE 4 SKIN PREP TIPS FOR CHEMICAL PEELS

1. STAY OUT OF THE SUN

This is not a time to forget about sunscreen and learning to love the shade.

Even if it’s wintertime, sunscreen should still be a part of your skincare regimen.

2. ENZYME PEELS

Enzyme peels are perfect pre-treatments to chemical peels.

This gentle exfoliant helps to remove the top layer of skin, speed up cell turnover and give your skin a fresh, glowing look.

3. RETINOLS

Retinols target cell turnover and skin exfoliation (hint, exfoliation is a big step in skin prep!).

4. DERMAPLANING

This exfoliation ninja helps “shave” the surface of the skin and remove the top layer — “peach fuzz” and all!

Don’t forget to speak with your skincare professional about skin prep before a chemical peel — they can customize a plan that’s just right for your skincare needs.

What Is A Chemical Peel?

Chemical (single or combination of chemicals) peels can be applied to your face, hands, and neck and aim to remove dry, damaged and dead skin cells by speeding up the natural exfoliation process.

This in-office treatment can improve the look and feel of your skin to reveal a smooth, healthy appearance.

What Are The Benefits of A Chemical Peel?

• Chemical peels can be customized for your specific skincare needs

• Chemical peels exfoliate the outer layer of your skin — which is the layer exposed to factors that damage, stress and dry your skin

• Chemical peels couple well with other skincare procedures

• Reduces acne, mild scarring, fine lines and wrinkles

• Removes dead skin cells

• Improves skin texture

• Stimulates collagen and elastin

• Reveals youthful, smoother looking skin

Is A Chemical Peel Painful?

Most people report a temperature change (warming or cold sensation) on the face and then slight tingling or itching.

These are all normal to experience during your treatment.

As always, speak with your esthetician if you feel uncomfortable or don’t know what a “normal” feeling is when it comes to your chemical peel.

What To Expect During and Post Chemical Peel

As we said, you may experience a slight temperature change, tingling or itching.

The treatment can last anywhere from 30-minutes to 90-minutes.

After your chemical peel, your skin may look red and feel tight. (This is where you DEFINITELY want to stay out of the sun and use sunscreen!).

And don’t forget to hydrate.

Peeling may last 3-7 days (depending on your type of chemical peel) and most importantly, your esthetician will give you specific instructions and recommendations to help you maximize the results of your peel.

ZO® 3-Step Peel

One of Renew’s favorite chemical peels is ZO®’s 3-Step Peel.

This powerful blend of exfoliants, retinol and multi-action agents aim to improve your skin health, signs of aging and skin discoloration.

CHARMAYNE SHOWS HER 5-DAY PROGRESS WITH THE ZO® 3-STEP PEEL!

Are you ready to fall in love with your skin with a chemical peel?

Give Renew a call today and start your skin health journey!

10 Tips to Build Better Mental Health

Sun, 06 Oct 2019 08:54:19 GMT

10 Tips to Build Better Mental Health

Ever feel overwhelmed by life?

We’re sure most people — from time to time — have felt engulfed by life in varying ways. (And if you haven’t…can we get some of your secrets, please?)

In a world where we have 24/7 access to news and the world of social media, it’s easy to feel the pressure of life on us.

And that can become daunting to our mental health.

Because your wellness is important to us (not just your skincare) — here are 10 tips to build better mental health!

10 Tips to Build Better Mental Health

1. TALK TO SOMEONE

Whether that be a therapist, your best friend or a tree in the middle of nowhere — talking it out can help you feel not so alone, and it gets everything out that is bottled up inside you.

Oftentimes when we release what we’ve been holding onto for a while, we immediately feel better. Kind of like when you have a vent session with your BFF, and you feel 20 pounds lighter after that conversation.

2. MOVE YOUR BODY

Join a gym, find a YouTube channel you like, go for a leisure (or brisk) walk outside (and take in the Pueblo Riverwalk scenery) or throw on some of your favorite tunes and dance your heart away.

Chemicals that are beneficial for your mental health release when you move your body and can help transform feelings of stress and anxiety. Go get your sweat on!

3. CREATE A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

Don’t feel so good after you eat a particular food? Pay attention to what your body likes and doesn’t like and incorporate more of what it does like into your daily life.

You don’t have to change everything at once — just add in one healthy lifestyle change at a time and watch your body thank you.

4. BUILD YOUR VILLAGE

Find your people (family, friends, mental health professionals, etc.) and make them part of your village. When you know you have people in your corner it takes the pressure off of feeling like you’re doing life alone.

5. WRITE IT OUT

Don’t want to talk to a therapist, or vent to your friend? Grab a journal and let it all out there. The paper can take it, trust us.

6. KNOW YOURSELF

Are you an introvert that feels like you should act like an extrovert? Drop the “shoulds” in life and embrace who you are and find the resources to support your unique qualities — even if that means staying in and watching Downtown Abbey over an evening out.

7. SELF-CARE LIKE IT’S YOUR JOB

What do you need to fill your mental, physical and emotional cup up? If you don’t know — experiment!

Does a bath help to ease the stress of the day? Does tea help you feel grounded? Whatever it is, incorporate more of it into your self-care!

8. KARAOKE ANYONE?

We know music has the ability to change a mood, so what if you put on some feel-good music and belted out some tunes at the top of your lungs (karaoke bar optional)? At the very least, you’ll have moved your body.

9. GRATITUDE IS THE ATTITUDE

Sometimes we need a reframe of our thoughts — especially if we’re going down a negative spiral.

When we choose to take time to appreciate what we do have in our life, it can foster an attitude of gratitude to help remind us of everything we’re not seeing in the moment.

10. REACH OUT

When we feel low, reaching out to volunteer can help us step outside of ourselves for a moment and see life through a new lens. Volunteer at an animal shelter, or soup kitchen, or extend help to your neighbor(s). This can also help to cultivate more gratitude!

We hope these tips help your journey to build better mental health.

And yes, skincare love is absolutely an act of self-care!

Ask Charmayne | What Are the Differences Between a Medical Spa & Day Spa?

Mon, 23 Sep 2019 08:36:32 GMT

Ask Charmayne | What Are the Differences Between a Medical Spa & Day Spa?

Q – CHARMAYNE, WHY DOES RENEW CALL ITSELF A MEDICAL SPA? IS THERE REALLY A DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A MEDICAL SPA AND A DAY SPA?

A – You’re looking for a spa because you want to relax, be pampered and heck – while you’re at it – take care of those fine lines and wrinkles popping up out of nowhere (that’s literally how it happens, right?).

But not all spas are created equal – especially medical spas and day spas – so let’s talk about the differences and which one is right for you.

What Are The Differences Between A Medical Spa & Day Spa?

When you hear the word spa, you’re probably imagining relaxation, tranquility and soothing music.

And that is definitely the goal of most spas.

But one of the biggest differences between a medical spa and day spa is in the results you’re seeking.

MEDICAL SPA

A medical spa – like Renew – wants you to not only feel good, we want you to look good as well (if that’s your goal, of course!).

THEREFORE, A MEDICAL SPA (OR MED SPA) OFFERS THESE DISTINCT DIFFERENCES —

A med spa has a medical director that not only oversees the operation, but usually performs medical treatments like BOTOX® and filler injections, and other advanced skincare services as well as vaginal rejuvenation .

At Renew, Dr. Rochelle Elijah acts as the owner and medical director!

Along with a medical director, med spas have Medical Aestheticians (that’s me, Charmayne!) that have added training to perform more aggressive skincare treatments like dermaplaning, microneedling, microdermabrasion, chemical peels, and laser hair removal.

You’ll typically see medical-grade skincare products at a med spa as well. Products like these offer a higher strength of active ingredients that can potentially create significant results for your customized treatments.

Therefore, the treatments you’ll find at a medical spa are geared towards creating results for you which can be achieved with medical-grade skin rejuvenation and tightening, body sculpting, laser hair removal, injections and fillers and intimate health.

DAY SPA

Day spas are all about your comfort!

A medical director is not required for a day spa and most likely you’ll see various people — including estheticians, cosmetologists, and resort or spa management companies — own and operate these businesses (depending on the laws for each state).

A day spas goal is to help you feel relaxed and comfortable from start to finish by offering skincare services and body and wellness treatments that are non-medical.

You’ll see that day spas offer everything from facials and massages, to waxing, lash and brow, spray tan, make-up application and nail services. You may even see that some day spas offer light medical treatments like microneedling or chemical peels – this all depends on state laws and varying factors.

I hope this helps you understand the differences between a medical spa (like Renew) and a day spa.

Both offer unique services for your specific desires.

And sometimes if you’re looking for specific results — a med spa could be just the type of spa you’re looking for!

Renew Medical Spa • Laser • Wellness in Downtown Pueblo

What is Microneedling?

Mon, 19 Aug 2019 07:29:43 GMT

What is Microneedling?

Tiny needles poking your face might sound like a scene out of a horror movie, right?

But what if we said that’s one of the best treatment options for acne scars, fine lines, collagen induction, and even hair loss?

(And no, you won’t walk out of Renew and into the Pueblo streets looking like you were in a Halloween movie.)

There’s magic in microneedling (the service using these tiny needles). Stick with us and we’ll explain why this treatment option is worth a little poke.

What Is Microneedling?

In a nutshell, this minimally invasive treatment uses multiple micro-fine needles which are used to prick and puncture the skin.

The needles then induce a deeper layer of skin (the derma) to begin skin rejuvenation.

We know that can sound scary, but it really isn’t and once you see the results from microneedling , you’ll understand why everyone’s talking about it.

What does Microneedling Do For The Skin?

You’re probably wondering, “And what is this pricking doing for my skin, exactly”?

Think of microneedling as a workout for your skin and here’s how this skin workout helps…

Benefits of Microneedling

• INDUCES COLLAGEN

Collagen is the reason why we see fewer wrinkles and fine lines, so the more collagen we have, the merrier!

• ENHANCES ABSORPTION OF TOPICAL PRODUCTS

Because microneedling may decrease pore size, you can begin to see your skincare products work smarter, not harder.

• REDUCES SCARS (ESPECIALLY ACNE SCARS)

Acne is no fun, but the scars left behind can, oftentimes, be harder to treat. Over time you should see a reduction in acne scars and a youthful-looking appearance.

• PAIRS WELL WITH OTHER SKIN TREATMENTS

Take your skin to the next level when you add a boost of PRP or Radiofrequency (RF) to your microneedling session.

• INCREASES HAIR GROWTH

This treatment can stimulate hair follicles that are dormant, so if you suffer from loss of hair (or have that one spot that needs some extra attention), this could be worth a try.

What Are The Side Effects of Microneedling?

This treatment is generally safe and effective.

Some people may experience redness, skin irritation, swelling and in some cases bleeding (which can be common with the depth of your microneedling treatment).

Speak with your skincare professional about any concerns you have pre, during and post-treatment.

There are people who are not candidates and those include anyone with —

• Active Acne

• Skin Infection

• Keloid Scarring

• A Blood Disease

When Can I See Results From Microneedling?

Downtime is minimal and redness should lessen after 24-48 hours.

For best results, stay out of the sun during this time, protect your skin and follow post-care instructions from your skincare professional.

Once the inflammation goes down, you will see a generously plump glow to your skin.

Treatments spaced out over six months can increase results, especially with collagen and elastin.

Remember, this treatment gets better over time, so patience is key.

What do you think about microneedling now?

Still scary, or does it sound worth it?

If you struggle with acne scars, fine lines, wrinkles—or want to see what the big deal is about microneedling—the Renew Crew invites you to come see for yourself.

Call Renew in Pueblo, Colorado today to get started!

Back to School | Your Skin Care Guide

Mon, 05 Aug 2019 06:54:10 GMT

Back To School | Your Skin Care Guide

Are you ready for back to school?

Whether you’re a student, parent or even grandparent, we know this time of year can get hectic.

With school supply shopping, summer winding down and soaking up that beautiful weather — it’s easy to forget about skin care .

(I mean, isn’t sunscreen enough to remember?)

We want you to look and feel your best, so we’re pulling out our best back to school skin care guide to help you feel confident as a new season approaches!

Back to School | Your Skin Care Guide

Yes, technically, we’re still in summer (trust us, we don’t want to rush this season either).

But we all know back to school signals a transition.

A transition that says our schedule may need an adjustment, fall is approaching, and we think it’s another opportunity to examine what your skin care routine looks like.

It’s easy to get stuck in a rut with products and skin care.

Decision fatigue can take over and the next thing you know – inspiration turns into frustration and you’re back to what you’ve always done: Wash. Rinse. Repeat. (And pray to the skin gods for a glowing complexion).

We say, “Not on our watch!”

Here are our best tips to help you up your back to school skin care game.

WELLNESS

If you think lack of sleep and stress doesn’t play a part in your overall health — think again.

Sometimes all it takes to look good is to feel good and that can start simply by taking a glance at your lifestyle.

BEST WELLNESS TIPS FOR BACK TO SCHOOL

1. GET SLEEP

We know you’ve heard it a thousand times, but interrupted sleep patterns wreak havoc on your body — including your skin.

Aim for 7-9 hours of solid sleep and your brain, body and skin will thank you.

2. CHOOSE HEALTHY FOOD OPTIONS

It doesn’t have to be complicated when it comes to eating healthy.

Stay hydrated , skip the sugar more often than not, eat in moderation and opt for whole foods like protein, healthy fats (avocado), vegetables and fruit over the junk and fast food.

3. MANAGE STRESS

With kids, a career and everything else life demands, stress can play a large part in your wellness journey.

Apply your non-negotiables in life any chance you get (that means carve out your “me time”), remember that self-care is critical to mental health and don’t forget to breathe.

Be mindful that everything is temporary, and you play a pivotal role in how you react to life.

4. MOVE AND SHAKE

Your skin loves when you get the body moving.

Exercise maintains healthy levels of cortisol (the stress hormone), purges toxins that can clog pores (hello, blackheads and blemishes), and reveals a healthy glow from all of that oxygenated blood.

Just move and shake. Take a walk. Dance the stress out. Buddy up and join a gym. Whatever you do, just get movin’.

SKIN CARE

You’re rockin’ the wellness (stress is at a minimum; sleep is on point, etc.).

Now it’s time to think about skin care.

Perhaps you just need a product refresh.

Or maybe you need a complete routine makeover.

Whatever it is, these tips will lead you in the right direction…

BEST SKIN CARE TIPS FOR BACK TO SCHOOL

1. QUESTION YOUR PRODUCTS

Have you used the same product since you were in high school? It’s ok if you have and if it works for you (we get attached, too).

Sometimes though we need to take a step back and examine what is working for our skin and what is not.

Oftentimes we need to cycle out of a product; experiment with other ones.

Now is the best time to question your skin care products and which ones need to stay and which ones need to go.

2. PAY ATTENTION TO SUN DAMAGE

Summer is fun.

Sun damage is not fun.

We can go a little wild in the summer and lose our sense of sunscreen and protection from the sun.

And then fall starts to creep up and we notice those dark, sunspots.

It’s best to catch sun damage early and with options like IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) and retinols, you can do just that.

These treatments can help your skin look sun-kissed, not sun-damaged.

3. EXFOLIATE

Part of any good skin care routine includes exfoliation.

Dead skin cells love to pile up and the next thing you know blemishes, inflammation, large pores, and blackheads are lurking on your skin.

Exfoliation is key to prepping the skin for maximum product absorption, smooth texture, and an even complexion.

Enzyme peels, retinols, and dermaplaning can help exfoliate the skin so it’s not working overtime.

What do you think, is this doable?

You don’t have to implement everything right away — start with one tip that excites you and integrate.

Incorporating even one wellness or skin care tip can help you step up your game!

Everything You Need to Know About Hyaluronic Acid

Sun, 21 Jul 2019 06:37:48 GMT

Everything You Need to Know About Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic Acid.

It almost sounds like something you’d use in chemistry class with beakers and those rather large – yet, safe – goggles on, doesn’t it?

Except this isn’t one of THOSE acids.

Hyaluronic Acid (HA) is naturally found in skin cells and works to hold water and keep that skin plump and full of hydration.

In other words: Hyaluronic Acid is crucial for keeping skin hydrated, soft, and smooth.

That means fewer fine lines, wrinkles and an even skin tone for you!

Ok, now that we know your skin wants and needs HA, let’s swap those chemistry lab goggles for some major geek time on all things Hyaluronic Acid.

What Is Hyaluronic Acid?

Hyaluronic Acid occurs naturally in the body and this molecule has the ability to hold 1000 times its weight in water which makes it one of the most potent ingredients for natural moisturizing.

Another reason why HA is so potent is that it also has the skill to control moisture within skin cells. Therefore, your cells aren’t drowned by too much moisture.

Smart little cookie, this substance is. (We said we were going to geek out, didn’t we?!)

HA is a super-magnet for cells to keep as much moisture as it can, so your skin can be as healthy and full of life as possible.

Why Is Hyaluronic Acid Important For Your Skin?

You know how people talk about the aging process and remind you to be aware that collagen and elastin start to decrease with age? (Hello, slow cell turnover and rough texture, fine lines and wrinkles that start to pop up).

Same goes for this naturally-occurring molecule.

(Oh, age – why do you have to be so cruel sometimes?)

That’s why it’s important to be aware of this process in your body and amp it up when age begins to slow it down.

And the good news is there are ways to increase the production of Hyaluronic Acid in the body.

How Do I Incorporate Hyaluronic Acid Into My Daily Life?

Now that you know the role Hyaluronic Acid plays in your skin health life, we bet you’re wondering how to get more of it into your daily routine.

Here are a few tips to up your Hyaluronic Acid game –

1. HYDRATE. HYDRATE. HYDRATE.

And that can start internally. Drink at least half of your body weight in ounces a day (Ex. Your weight: 140 pounds. Drink 70 ounces of water a day).

Incorporate water-rich foods like watermelon and peaches into your wellness lifestyle.

These routes of hydration can decrease inflammation and help your body and skin retain moisture.

2. SERUM. CREAM. INJECTABLE.

Hyaluronic Acid can be found in everything from a precious bottle of serum, a jar of eye cream, a special face mask, your daily facial cleanser to a filler for your face and lips.

HA can stand-alone or be combined with other ingredients.

Of course, speak with your favorite, trusted esthetician before you go crazy buying all the products you see that has Hyaluronic Acid in it.

Makeup tip: instead of a primer, use HA as a base before you apply your makeup.

Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid For Your Skin

1. With skin hydration comes a plump face that will have you looking like rest and relaxation is your middle name.

2. Want to shave off a few years on the face? Those fine lines and wrinkles can begin to soften (and hopefully lessen over time).

3. The fight against free radicals can be won with HA because it’s packed with antioxidants that can kick environmental stressors to the curb.

4. It’s safe for any skin type — even the most sensitive and easily aggravated.

5. Speaking of safety for your skin, this is one acid that is counter-intuitive to its name because it’s actually gentle to your skin. No harsh exfoliation or downtime with this acid.

So, do you feel like you just had a major geek session on Hyaluronic Acid (minus the beakers and safety goggles)?

Can you believe the power of HA? Talk about tiny, but mighty!

Have any questions, or feel like Hyaluronic Acid should be part of your skincare routine?

The Renew Crew would love to help you with a skincare analysis and consultation.

Call us today and start a skin health and wellness journey you won’t regret!

Ask Charmayne | What Is An OxyGeneo™ 3-in-1 Facial?

Mon, 08 Jul 2019 06:25:12 GMT

Ask Charmayne | What Is An OxyGeneo™ 3-in-1 Facial?

Q – Charmayne, I’ve heard about a new 3-in-1 “super” facial…is there such a thing, or is this a new skin fad?

A – Well, you’ve heard correctly; there is such a thing as a “super” facial. And the good news is, it’s so not a skin fad — we think this skin health technology is here to stay!

"This service is actually an OxyGeneo™ 3-in-1 Facial that combines exfoliation, infusion and oxygenation to support a complexion that is well nourished to reveal a healthy glow."

— Charmayne Torres-Trujillo, Medical Aesthetician

The unique aspect of this “super facial” is its ability to work naturally with your body which allows for higher potency and benefit for your skin.

Ok, let’s talk about how this facial really works for your skin and why we think this facial will be next on your self-care list!

WHAT IS AN OXYGENEO™ FACIAL?

Three treatments are simultaneously delivered in this facial:

#1 – EXFOLIATION

Exfoliation occurs to the outer layer of the skin to remove dead cells and prepares the skin to absorb nutrient-rich active ingredients.

Think microdermabrasion, but much less abrasive.

This phase of exfoliation is safe for all skin types (including sensitive skin).

#2 – INFUSION

Infusion is where your happy skin cells come alive with active ingredients that will help nourish your complexion.

The infusion of essential nutrients like peptides, hyaluronic acid and antioxidants help improve texture, improve clarity of complexion and support bright skin.

#3 – OXYGENATION

This is where the genius of OxyGeneo™ comes in – oxygenation of the skin is generated within your body.

CO2 bubbles create a physiological response with a gentle burst on your skin’s surface, which stimulates oxygen-rich blood flow and increased skin metabolism.

Nutrient-rich active ingredients are then optimally absorbed by your skin.

EXFOLIATE + INFUSE + OXYGENATE RESULTS –

• Skin Plumping & Hydrating

• Restored Skin Volume

• Renewed Youthful Glow

• Increased Collagen

• Reduced hyper-pigmentation

• Improved Skin Cell Production

• Reduce Appearance of Wrinkles

• Safe for ANY skin type!

WHAT SKIN TYPE IS THIS FACIAL FOR?

All skin types! Even the sensitive ones. Another reason why we love this “super facial”.

HOW LONG DOES THE OXYGENEO™ FACIAL TAKE?

I know we sound like a broken record, but this can be done during your lunch hour! (I mean, who has time for long treatments these days?)

Typically, it takes 30 minutes for the facial with some time for pre and post treatment preparation.

WHAT IS THE DOWNTIME FOR OXYGENEO™?

Zero! No downtime for this facial and you can go right back to your daily routine.

Because this treatment feels like a massage for your face; you should feel comfortable the entire time.

HOW MANY OXYGENEO™ FACIALS ARE RECOMMENDED TO SEE RESULTS?

After the first treatment, you will see noticeable results!

OxyGeneo™ Facials can be performed frequently and we can customize a skincare plan just for you.

So, what do you think — is this the facial you’re looking for?

Who doesn’t love skin that is well exfoliated, infused with nutrient-rich ingredients and oxygenated to nourish and plump the skin?

If you’re ready to up your self-care game and reveal a healthy complexion — without all the hassle of time-consuming skin treatments — OxyGeneo™ 3-in-1 “Super” Facial is here for you!

Ask Charmayne | What Is A Renew Signature Facelift?

Mon, 20 May 2019 05:02:49 GMT

Ask Charmayne | What Is A Renew Signature Facelift?

Q: OK, CHARMAYNE, I KEEP HEARING ABOUT THIS HIGHLY SPECIALIZED FACIAL THAT YOU OFFER AT RENEW – WHAT EXACTLY IS IT?

A: Yes, we do offer a specialized facial and the exact one you’re referring to is the Renew Signature Facelift.

And honestly, it’s one of my favorite facials — if not my favorite — because of the results it creates.

Simply, this facial is custom-built to exfoliate + hydrate + brighten + tighten your gorgeous face!

If you’re a skin geek like me here’s the breakdown of how this signature facial can help your skin feel fresh and renewed.

WHAT IS A RENEW SIGNATURE FACELIFT?

This facial helps to reverse the visible effects of skin damage in several ways—

• First, it powers away dull, dead cells to illuminate the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, age spots, clogged pores and blemishes.

• Then, it supports collagen for firmer-looking skin over time. (Hello, gorgeous!)

• Our signature, results-driven treatment combines Vitamin C, hydroxy acids and enzymes to speed up cellular renewal. Stem cells are combined with brightening, protection, detox and energy complexes.

Vitamin C and fruit enzymes blended in an organic aloe vera base visibly reduce redness and brighten the skin.

Hyaluronic acid provides superior hydration.

And this peel is perfect for skin types that are: redness-prone, dry/dehydrated, smoker’s skin, tired/ dull, post-microdermabrasion, oily/acne.

This combination of potent, yet gentle ingredients offers noticeable results in just one session.

Yes, that means you’ll walk out looking refreshed + renewed!

Book your R E F R E S H today…

How to Protect Your Skin from The Sun

Mon, 06 May 2019 09:55:36 GMT

How to Protect Your Skin from The Sun

We’re nearing summer and sunshine is about to be in full bloom (especially here in Southern Colorado where we’re known as the “desert of Colorado”. Interesting right?).

Now, you won’t find us sun-loving people complaining about warmth and all the adventures that come along with those rays of sunshine (hello, water activities and drinks on the patio).

You will, however, find us in the shade, slathering on sunscreen, while talking A LOT about how to protect your skin from the sun.

And because May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month – what better time to talk about your skin and protection from the sun?!

First up, though, is some cold, hard truths about sun and skin cancer…

SUN AND SKIN CANCER

According to the American Academy of Dermatology :

• 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime.

• Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States.

• Approximately 9,500 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with skin cancer daily.

• One blistering sunburn during childhood or adolescence can nearly double a person’s chance of developing melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, later in life.

• Nearly, 20 Americans die from melanoma every day.

• UV exposure is the most preventable risk factor for all skin cancers.

• Water, snow and sand can reflect and intensify the sun’s damaging rays.

• Even on cloudy days, up to 80% of the sun’s UV rays can reach your skin.

We know reading these figures can be a sobering thought, especially when the figures point out that melanoma takes 20 American lives a day.

But there’s good news: you can greatly reduce your risk of skin cancer!

(Go ahead and breathe now after reading those statistics).

So, how do you reduce your risk of skin cancer?

Good old-fashioned sun protection .

Before we introduce ways to protect your skin from the sun, we need to talk about the sun and what it CAN do for your body and health…

THE (HEALTHY) SUN AND VITAMIN D

We’ve discussed the harm that the sun can do to your skin (increased skin cancer risk and even sun damage).

What we haven’t talked about is what the sun (specifically Vitamin D) can do for your overall health.

The sun is essential for Vitamin D production which helps hormone regulation, supports a healthy immune system and builds strong bones (just to name a few perks).

So, if we’re constantly protecting ourselves from the sun, how do we get that essential Vitamin D from the sun?

According to the National Institutes of Health –

“It has been suggested by some vitamin D researchers, for example, that approximately 5–30 minutes of sun exposure between 10 AM and 3 PM at least twice a week to the face, arms, legs, or back without sunscreen usually lead to sufficient vitamin D synthesis…Individuals with limited sun exposure need to include good sources of vitamin D in their diet or take a supplement to achieve recommended levels of intake.”

Remember, when taking into consideration your relationship to the sun; consider these factors:

• Skin type

• Where you live (how harsh the sun can or cannot be in your area)

• How much sun exposure your skin has had over your lifetime (Sun worshipper? Tanning beds? Rarely use sunscreen?)

Yes, your body needs Vitamin D, but it doesn’t need an increased risk in skin cancer or sun damage, therefore, find a happy dance between sun health and sun protection.

Ok, speaking of protection…

Here are some of our favorite ways to protect your skin from the sun!

HOW TO PROTECT YOUR SKIN FROM THE SUN

1. COVER UP

We love a powerful sunscreen, but even that chemical barrier can’t block all the sun from your skin.

If you’re down with being covered head-to-toe in protective clothing, go for it!

If that’s not your style, at least opt for a wide-brimmed hat (peace out sun damage), shades and something to cover those areas on your body that sun loves to touch.

2. BE SHADY

The sun is the most powerful during the hours of 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., so that means, duck and get your shade on.

Having lunch outside? Go for a shaded area, or under an umbrella. Remember that hat you bought to protect you from the sun? Whip it out and be as shady as you need to be!

3. KNOW YOUR SURFACES

Keep in mind it’s not just the surface of the sun that can increase your risk of skin cancer.

Surfaces like water, snow and sand can all reflect the sun’s rays and the next thing you know, you’re wondering how you got a sunburn on a cloudy day at the beach, or a plow down the mountain.

Protect your skin from the sun, snow, sand and water!

4. SUNSCREEN. SUNSCREEN. SUNSCREEN.

This one is a no-brainer, so here are some extra tips to keep your sunscreen working hard.

• Don’t forget the areas on your body like lips, hands, feet, ears and neck.

• Use a water-resistant, broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF of 30 or higher.

• Reapply! Especially after sweating or swimming and typically every two hours.

5. REPEAT AFTER ME, “NO MORE TANNING BEDS”

Repeat that mantra any time you feel the urge to get in a tanning bed.

Not only does your skin cancer risk increase with tanning beds, but so does the aging process (wrinkles, sun damage, hyperpigmentation, age spots, etc.).

And we want you to look AND feel your best, so drop the tanning bed and if you’re really feeling an itch for tanning; grab a self-tanner and slather away.

We know the risk of skin cancer is scary – especially with numbers that say 20 Americans die from melanoma a day (eek!).

The upside? You have all the power to reduce that risk by protecting yourself from the sun.

Ditching tanning beds, covering up with a hat and light layers, seeking the shade as much as

possible and using sunscreen consistently when outdoors (even around water, sand and snow)

can help your relationship with the sun be as healthy as possible.

Because using a hat and looking like a celebrity while doing it is way cooler than sun damage and

increasing your risk of skin cancer!

Laser Hair Removal | Your Guide to Remove Unwanted Hair

Mon, 15 Apr 2019 09:07:45 GMT

Laser Hair Removal | Your Guide to Remove Unwanted Hair

What body hair camp do you consider yourself to be a part of?

The full-on 80’s band camp that loves all the hair, in all the places?

The no hair loving camp, except on my head?

Or are you the in-between camp who prefers a little hair there and definitely no hair there?

If you’re in the camp that wants to get rid of some (or all) body hair — we have your guide to remove unwanted hair with a little help from laser hair removal!

What Is Laser Hair Removal?

“Laser hair removal targets melanin (a pigment) that’s found in the hair follicle. The heat from the laser damages the hair follicle and most often destroys it or dramatically inhibits hair growth.”

– Dr. Rochelle Elijah

The focus for removing unwanted body hair with laser hair removal is on hair reduction over time.

This is especially helpful for anyone who has coarse, thick, dark hair who essentially shave their legs and underarms in the morning and by the afternoon — itching the hair they just shaved.

Who Is Laser Hair Removal For?

“The best candidate for laser hair removal is someone who desires a major reduction in their body hair to accompany a lifestyle that doesn’t require much — if any shaving; in my experience arms, legs, bikini area and underarms perform best.”

– Charmayne Torres-Trujillo, Medical Aesthetician

We know shaving can take up a lot of time and resources (hello last minute Target run for razors on a Sunday night), so laser hair removal would be ideal for you if you’re over the hassle of shaving and everything that accompanies it (potential rash from razor, extended time shaving, and money spent over a lifetime on razors and shaving cream).

What Are The Benefits of Laser Hair Removal?

We mentioned that your investment in razors may greatly decrease; here are some more benefits to keep in mind for choosing laser hair removal:

Targeted Treatment – The lasers can target the area of unwanted hair while leaving the skin surrounding it undamaged.

Pace – Many hairs can be treated at one time during the process (an area the size of a quarter may be treated every second).

Downtime – Little to no downtime and this treatment can be done during your lunch hour.

Long-Term Savings – Forget buying shaving cream, depilatories and those razors in bulk! Not to mention the confidence you’ll have when you can rock your swimsuit without any bumps or redness around that bikini line.

Is Laser Hair Removal Painful?

Ok, you’ve decided to swear off razors and now you want to make that laser hair removal appointment and blast those hair follicles. You’re singing good riddance to that unwanted hair, but then you start to ask yourself, “Hold on, how much is this going to hurt?”

Well, here’s the deal: some say it feels like the continuous flick of a rubber-band (remember that annoying kid in middle school who did that to you?), while others would beg to differ.

Depending on pain tolerance, some say it feels less than the rubber-band flicking, and some argue, “No way, it hurts more than I thought!”

If pain is a concern, request a test area to be done to see if the procedure is right for you and keep in mind that a numbing cream is usually used for your comfort.

How Many Laser Sessions Are Needed?

Typically, 6-8 laser hair removal sessions are required so you may experience the maximum benefit of hair reduction.

Remember that the area of the body being treated, hormones, hair thickness, skin color and health condition all play a role in how many sessions you will need for your individual treatment plan.

Intermittent treatment may be needed every year due to potential hair growth in certain areas, as well as maintenance for stubborn hair that needs extra “help”.

Laser Hair Removal Risks

Removing unwanted hair via laser hair removal is considered a safe treatment and with any treatments using laser and heat, there are things to consider…

• Darker hair and lighter skin are the best candidates for targeting pigment because the darker skin can potentially absorb the laser light which causes it higher heat and can burn the skin.

• If you have hair that is fairer the laser may not be as effective due to lighter pigment.

• Laser hair removal can be incompatible with photosensitive medications like antibiotics. We also recommend abstaining from the use of skin care products that contain alpha hydroxy acid and retinols that can leave your skin hypersensitive during and post-treatment.

If you don’t know for sure what medications could interact with laser hair removal, check with your doctor before treatment in addition to having a conversation with your medical spa provider.

If you’ve come this far – thank you – because it sounds like you’re ready to ditch the razor and remove unwanted hair.

Whatever hair camp you find yourself in know there are options for dramatically reducing hair in areas you no longer want to take the time to shave or spend money on razors over your lifetime.

Because who wants to worry about unwanted hair when you’re on the beach, rockin’ a bikini line you’re proud of?!

Looking for Work-Life Balance? Here’s What to Do Instead.

Mon, 01 Apr 2019 07:19:58 GMT

Looking for Work-Life Balance? Here’s What to Do Instead.

Has your BFF or partner said this to you lately: “You need to find some balance between your work and home-life.”?

Actually, they may not have said that to you, they may have shouted that AT you while you were pinging from work stuff to family stuff to everything in between.

Does this scenario sound all too familiar?

If you struggle with the balancing act of work and life — first of all — know you’re not alone (we battle with it as well).

And also, keep in mind there’s a different way to view “balance”.

Here’s what we’re talking about…

Is Work-Life Balance A Myth?

Did your mom stay home to raise you and she thinks you should do the same?

Did your dad work long hours and weekends to provide the “best possible life” for you?

Does your sibling(s) buck the family system and believe you should live it up as much as possible?

Does your grandma harp on you to not work weekends?

Whatever scenario you were raised in, when it comes to the beliefs around what it takes to achieve work-life balance, there comes a time when YOU have to know what you believe.

So many times, we take in the world around us without filtering and deciphering what truly works for us — not for mom, dad, sister, brother, grandma, grandpa and great uncle Steve.

That’s why we have to ask ourselves, “Is work-life balance a myth ?”

WORK-LIFE BALANCE MAY NOT EXIST AT ALL, BECAUSE OFTENTIMES, WE’RE LIVING OUT SOMEONE ELSE’S VERSION OF IT— NOT OUR OWN.

So, what do you do when work-life balance is a myth?

Seek alignment.

Align-who, you might be asking.

Let us explain…

Work-Life Alignment

No, we’re not talking about going to the chiropractor and getting adjusted (although, that can help, too).

What we’re talking about is alignment with your work-life…not balance.

“Aim for work-life alignment by crafting a meaningful professional life that matches up with who you are and what’s important to you.” – Patricia Thompson, Ph.D

The work-life concept described by Patricia Thompson, Ph.D integrates your core values, meaningful relationships, and awareness of what areas in your life are not fully aligned.

So what does that look like in everyday life?

How To Seek Work-Life Alignment

Ever thought your life was on the hot mess express? We’ve probably all been there and that’s why the harder we seek balance in work-life, the farther away that “goal” becomes.

Why? Because life is full of ups and downs and the more we work with them, the easier alignment can be.

HERE ARE SOME TIPS ON HOW TO MOVE TOWARDS MORE WORK-LIFE ALIGNMENT

• Seek relationships, friendships, and circumstances that lift you up; not drain you.

If your work is a source of contention look at other areas of your life that can help ease that work burden. That might mean saying buy-bye to that toxic friend you keep around for no good reason or asking for help from your partner around the house.

• Accept that balance is a myth + integrate your values.

What can you take with you everywhere you go? Your core values.

Whether that looks like working a little extra one week because you have upcoming travel, or getting your meal-prep on like the boss that you are so you can eat what helps you feel your best — it’s all about integrating the things that matter most to you.

Not every day or week will look the same and oftentimes, accepting that work-life alignment looks different from time-to-time can help you feel good about showing up fully as your best self — in work and life.

• Drop the guilt.

If you’re a human then you know life is not always linear (even as hard as we try to make it be).

Life is full of hiccups and speed-bumps, roaring highways and curvy mountain roads. When we can stop throwing guilt and shame on ourselves, life can open up in ways that give us options to take the slow lane, or pass the Sunday drivers — but only when we realize we’re all doing the best we can with what we have.

So drop the guilt and raise your glass to riding the waves of work-life alignment — with your core values intact and more areas of your life — than not — that fill you up!

Ask Charmayne | What Is Laser Genesis?

Mon, 11 Mar 2019 07:08:13 GMT

Ask Charmayne | What Is Laser Genesis?

Q: What Is Laser Genesis

A: Well, I can’t start this Q& A off without saying how much I LOVE Laser Genesis !

I recommend this treatment to just about every client who comes to see me; especially if they have an event coming up soon (even that weekend) because most people see results right away.

And this service is one of our favorite treatments at Renew – not just for you the client – but I personally use Laser Genesis for my skincare routine and maintenance.

Ok, enough about me and my love for Laser Genesis –let’s find out WHY I love this skincare treatment so much and think you will too!

What Is Laser Genesis?

Laser Genesis is a non-invasive laser treatment that helps restore and smooth out skin tone and texture as well as reduce acne scarring, fine lines and wrinkles, redness, pore size and can aid in the treatment of active acne.

The Laser Genesis’s heat-based laser boosts collagen growth and loves to work on treating acne scars and rosacea.

"I don’t just recommend Laser Genesis, I’m a faithful user of this treatment because it works. Especially for rosacea sufferers like myself."

— Charmayne Torres-Trujillo, Medical Aesthetician

Who Is Laser Genesis For?

The short answer: just about anyone!

If you struggle with acne, acne scarring, rosacea, large pores or desire an overall refresh of your skin tone and texture – without going under the knife – Laser Genesis is for you.

Of course, there are always exceptions when it comes to certain skin types that Laser Genesis may not be useful for, so please speak with your skin care expert.

How Does Laser Genesis Work?

Laser Genesis can be done on the face, neck and chest and depending on the area you’re receiving this treatment, the appointment is typically around 30-45 minutes.

Most people report that Laser Genesis is not painful – only a warm sensation is felt. And yet, another reason why we love this treatment: zero downtime and recovery.

Now, taking into consideration your skin type and desired results, multiple treatments (3-5) of Laser Genesis (spaced out over 4+ weeks) is recommended.

What Results Can I Expect from Laser Genesis?

With this lunchtime laser treatment, you can potentially see results right after receiving Laser Genesis.

However, the most optimal results and benefits are seen within 3-6 months (and oftentimes, beyond that timeframe).

Maintenance for results – especially if being treated for pigment and rosacea challenges – are highly recommended every 6-12 months.

Protecting yourself from the sun and maintaining a consistent skincare regimen at home can also help extend your results from Laser Genesis.

What I’m trying to say is — you know that really trustworthy best friend you call upon when life’s getting you down and who always has golden nuggets of wisdom to share?

That’s a lot like our BFF Laser Genesis: totally there for you when you’re at your wits end with your skin, shows up consistently for you with treatments and helps you feel all warm and fuzzy (outside + inside…because laser and confidence!).

Ready to get to know your skin BFF, Laser Genesis?

Health Benefits of (Real) Chocolate

Mon, 04 Feb 2019 05:15:40 GMT

Health Benefits of (Real) Chocolate

If the month of February doesn’t scream chocolate, I’m not sure what does.

I mean, not only is this the month of love but all things love-inducing as well. And if we’re being honest, real chocolate has the potential to do a lot of love-inducing.

Now, before you fly out the door to stock up on all of those chocolate-laden candy bars – mini size and all – keep reading because there’s a major difference between chocolate you think you’re getting in a candy bar versus a real-deal hunk of chocolate.

Not to mention the health benefits correlated with this tropical tree seed called cacao.

But first, a little background on this little bean…

CHOCOLATE: CACAO OR COCOA – WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?

In Latin, this tropical, evergreen tree Theobroma Cacao — which contains cacao fruits (pods of cacao beans) — literally means “Food for the Gods”.

In America, it’s easy to confuse the difference between cacao and cocoa . Growing up I never heard my mom say, “Come get your hot cacao, Sweetie!”

Now that we’re in a bit of a health craze in this country the differences in cacao and cocoa are being talked about.

So, what are the differences exactly?

Cacao is the pure, raw form of chocolate.

Cocoa is more processed – with high heat – and oftentimes sugar, milk fat and oil have been added to it.

Cocoa is the hot chocolate of our childhood and the candy bars we hand out at Halloween (or stash in our desks at work).

Cacao is the health craze of today and the purest form of chocolate, packed with all of those health benefits you’re looking for!

However, you’ll often hear both cocoa and cacao used interchangeably even though they can be distinctly different.

Ok, so what exactly are these health benefits we’re hooting and hollering about?

HEALTH BENEFITS OF CHOCOLATE

Before we dig into the health benefits of chocolate, we want to acknowledge that 85% dark chocolate – with little to no processing or added sugars – is highly recommended for being the most beneficial for your mind + body.

Ok, now for those health benefits of chocolate we keep talking about…

• Antioxidant High Achiever: If dark chocolate was taking a test on its ability to fight free radicals and support antioxidant activity; their score would be higher than most (including blueberries). Looking to fight the signs of aging? Bring on the cacao and antioxidants, please!

• Chocolate Truly Does Love the Heart: You know that LDL cholesterol everyone says to keep low? Well, in observational studies chocolate has been shown to protect against oxidation; therefore arteries are less clogged and risk of heart disease is potentially lower. Thank you, dear chocolate!

• Brain Booster: With stimulants like caffeine and theobromine (the good-energy stimulant that doesn’t crash the central nervous system) and high-flavanols that support circulation and blood flow – chocolate is primed to boost the brain. Who says you can’t have a nibble of chocolate before a test or big meeting?!

• High on Happy: You know how we said February is the month of all things love-inducing? Well, chocolate may be one of the culprits for that feeling in the brain. Serotonin, dopamine, and endorphins – your “happiness neurotransmitters” – can be released when chocolate is consumed. Before you know it you’re feeling all the feelings from these happy chocolate neurotransmitters!

A NOTE ON CHOCOLATE – THE PITFALLS?

As we mentioned, the most concentration of nutrients and health benefits of chocolate are found in cacao – specifically dark, 85% chocolate – with little to no added sugars or processed ingredients.

Grabbing a bunch of candy bars and thinking that’s going to boost the brain and send you into happy land – probably not.

Go for that dark chocolate, or heck, grab some raw cacao powder at your local health food store and make your very own hot chocolate.

Whether February is your month to spread the love or that’s just not your thing – keep in mind the power of chocolate (the cacao kind, anyway). This hunk of dark chocolate can ramp up those antioxidants (hello anti-aging!), boost that brain power (bring on that meeting!), keep your cholesterol (LDL specifically) in check (I love you, heart!) and help you get into your happy place…one small nibble of chocolate at a time!

Ask Charmayne | What Is An Oxygen Facial?

Mon, 14 Jan 2019 04:24:56 GMT

Ask Charmayne | What Is An Oxygen Facial?

Q — WHAT IS AN OXYGEN LIFT FACIAL?

A — If you’re imagining laying back with some spa music in the background and an oxygen tank right next to you — don’t worry, it’s not THAT kind of Oxygen Facial.

This non-medical facial uses a skincare line which infuses oxygen, plant-derived stem cells, peptides and specially concentrated enzymatic botanicals into the O2 LIFT facial.

This Oxygen LIFT Facial delivers a spa experience you won’t regret (especially from the RENEW Crew — but you know that) with results you can see the minute you walk out of your treatment.

WHAT RESULTS CAN YOU EXPECT?

Anti-aging: We’re talking cell turnover (thank you enzymes) that’s gentle, yet invigorating. Hello, Glow!

Moisturized and Rejuvenated: This Oxygen LIFT Facial aims to produce gorgeous, luminous skin that will leave your face feeling healthy and radiant.

When your Oxygen Facial is finished and you walk out of that peaceful room (feeling so relaxed you forget where you are for a minute) your face will be fully moisturized, glowing and ready to turn over new cells for skin rejuvenation like a kid that just learned how to ride a bike (vroom, vroom!).

How to Ease into The New Year (Without Losing Your Mind)

Mon, 07 Jan 2019 04:17:21 GMT

How to Ease into The New Year (Without Losing Your Mind)

Oh hello, 2019!

Have you noticed there are two very distinct camps of people when it comes to making stuff happen and crushing goals in the new year?

The super energetic, full of vigor, jazzercising camp – “Let’s DO THIS PEOPLE!!” (With so many exclamation points and in all caps because they’re shouting this from the rooftops).

And the Eeyore-laden, ho-hum camp – “Another year. Another shmyear. Whatever.” (In the most mundane tone because they just don’t do excitement very well).

But what if there was another camp?

Yes, let’s create another camp and call it Easy Like Sunday Morning Camp (and tip our hats to Lionel Richie).

This new year camp is all about ease + productivity; grit + grace; get’er done + give it some time.

The new year can be full of so much hope + excitement it’s easy to get swept up into goal setting and what you want to accomplish for the next twelve months, the next thing you know anxiety is setting in.

Before you know it overwhelm sweeps up any feelings of excitement and eagerness for what you want to accomplish in the new year.

And why is that?

Because we’re not giving ourselves enough time to integrate, to decipher what we want and don’t want – instead, we’re just looking at placing a checkmark next to our daily/weekly/yearly goals.

We’re too hard on ourselves.

We expect too much too soon.

And the next thing you know a pint of ice cream has vanished and it’s gurgling in the belly – because overwhelm.

What if we changed that paradigm?

What if we usher in 2019 in a way that feels good?

If this sounds like a better plan than you have now – then we have some Easy Like Sunday Morning tips for your best year yet (without all the overwhelm).

Ease Into The New Year Tips

1. SET GOALS (BUT BE SPACIOUS WITH YOUR TIME + SELF-LOVE)

Have a ginormous, behemoth goal this year? (Good for you, by the way!)

Does this goal scare you a bit? That’s what big goals do, don’t they? They’re equally frightening and exhilarating.

What if, every time you got scared with this big one, you also gave yourself some space + time as well?

Perhaps your goal needs a new timeline?

Perhaps you need to recalibrate?

Perhaps you need to scrap the whole thing?

Give yourself enough time to cultivate + create as well as be gentle with how this goal is playing out.

Be tenacious + flexible!

2. EXPERIMENT (REPLACE THE WORD GOALS WITH EXPERIMENTS)

Does the word goal send tingles down your back?

If you’re in the category of people that just don’t love the word “goals” – what if you replace that word with experiment?

Sometimes we just need an energy shift that helps us take the pressure off and find more fun and freedom with all the things we want to do in the new year.

Here’s a little script that can help shift your mindset –

Goal/experiment: Lose 15 pounds.

Mindset/Mantra: “This year I’m going to experiment with foods that make me feel good + a lifestyle that supports high energy levels, clear thinking and more movement in my daily life.”

Instead of making things too strict; make your focus about feeling better and experiment with what will help you do that!

3. REMEMBER THE “LITTLE” WINS

Don’t forget to acknowledge the wins you achieve on a daily or weekly basis.

Maybe you packed your lunch for work more than you didn’t.

Maybe you got up 30-minutes early 4 out of 7 days.

Maybe you simply showed up for yoga class.

Sometimes showing up – more often than not – is all you need to keep the momentum going…

So, keep showing up!

Whether you’re bogged down by goal overload or haven’t even thought about what you want from 2019 – we hope these tips and mind shifts help you feel less stress + more spacious as you move through this new year!

2018 Reflections from Dr. Elijah + Charmayne

Mon, 17 Dec 2018 04:04:39 GMT

2018 Reflections from Dr. Elijah & Charmayne

“We cannot direct the wind, but we can adjust the sails.”
– Dolly Parton

With 2018 coming to a close – we decided to look back on this year with some reflections & life lessons we’re definitely taking with us into 2019 and beyond.

We hope these nuggets help you!

DR. ELIJAH | 2018 REFLECTIONS

• LIFE’S TOO SHORT TO BE OFFENDED BY EVERYTHING

I think taking offense to everything just makes us angry all the time. I got caught up in all the politics for a while, but I felt myself just being triggered by others and that made me feel anger and irritation, so I blocked the negativity on social media. Often times the power really does belong within us!

• ENCOURAGE YOUR KID TO GRADUATE EARLY

Not only does this save you a lot of money, it also allows your kid to jump into a possible career earlier or get in some travel before starting a job.

• STARTING A NEW BUSINESS AND RENOVATING A BUILDING IS HARD WORK

When I embarked on starting a new business and renovating a building, I never could have imagined what those two endeavors could entail. I have new admiration for all those entrepreneurs out there and showing up every day – especially when curveballs get thrown your way!

CHARMAYNE | 2018 REFLECTIONS

• FRIENDS ARE THE FAMILY YOU CHOOSE FOR YOURSELF

I’ve learned blood isn’t the only requirement for family – it can also be friends who come into your life and make your world SO much better. I’m grateful I’ve embraced friends who are just like family to me.

• SELF-CARE IS NOT SELFISH

Taking care of yourself mentally, physically and emotionally is an absolute requirement before you can even think about taking “care” of anyone else. It may have taken me a while to learn this one, but I’m happy I can see the benefit of self-care (like, don’t even come at me if I haven’t done at least 10 burpees)!

• NOURISH CONNECTIONS

Sometimes you find connections with people you never thought would be a part of your life. I’ve learned not to shirk those bonds – even when I can’t fully understand why a certain person was placed in my life. Whether someone is in your life for a particular reason, a specific season or throughout your lifetime – soak all the lessons in that you can!

Here’s to all the life lessons that’s shaped you throughout this year + the lessons carrying you into the new year.

Cheers, 2019 –

Dr. Elijah & Charmayne

Botox vs Filler | Which One Is Right for You?

Mon, 10 Dec 2018 03:56:42 GMT

Botox vs Filler | Which One Is Right for You?

Look in the mirror lately and spot some sneaky lines and potential wrinkles on your face – that you’re NOT in love with?

Aging is definitely part of life, but the world we live in now – going under the knife doesn’t have to be the only way to treat a sagging face or even that “resting” face where people think you’re either super angry, or highly confused.

(You know the one we’re talking about!)

A less invasive approach to treating wrinkles, lines and areas of lost volume on your face can be Botox or filler.

But this is where confusion usually sets in…

What’s the difference between Botox and filler and which one should I choose?

Let’s take a closer look, so you can decide for yourself…

What Is Botox?

You’re injecting WHAT into your face?

Oh, just a neurotoxin that’s produced by a bacterium by the name of Clostridium botulinum (aka botulinum toxin).

(Whew, that’s a mouthful isn’t it?)

Just saying those big words and uttering neurotoxin on top of it sounds like nobody should be injecting Botox into anything, right?

But what if we said it all depends on how the Botox is made and administered that distinguishes Botox from wrinkle-smoother to botulism-inducer?

Botox – the kind used for injecting into and smoothing areas like the forehead and eye area – first comes in a powder form that is diluted with saline which allows for injection.

The saline also helps to water down the Botox and dilute any toxic capabilities.

When Botox is injected into, say, the forehead area, it will block transmission to the nerve in the nearby muscles. Almost like a “freeze” of that injected area.

When Botox is used and administered correctly (ahem, we’re talking a licensed professional) it can be used for more than a smooth forehead.

Botox can also be used for headaches, migraines, eye crossing, muscular and bowel disorders, bladder challenges and even excessive sweating.

Depending on your age and amount of collagen, receiving Botox for aesthetic reasons may also help your future creases and wrinkles as well.

Who would’ve thought Botox was more than a beauty enhancer?

Ok, now that we’ve covered Botox, let’s talk about filler…

What Is Filler?

Most fillers contain Hyaluronic Acid (in different forms) and do not “freeze” the muscle like Botox does.

Filler is usually used in areas that Botox is not (like around the mouth) and can even be used to contour the nose, plump up the perfect pout, as well as add volume to areas that appear to be sagging on the face.

There are different versions and names for these fillers :

• RESTYLANE SILK – known to be a subtle enhancer.

• RESTYLANE + RESTYLANE-L – known for volume; the only difference is the Restylane-L has lidocaine in it for potential prevention of pain.

• JUVÉDERM VOLBELLA XC – lip line definition, in addition to smoothing out fine lines found around the mouth area.

• JUVÉDERM ULTRA XC – known for a plush lip look.

Depending on the look you’re going for, a combination of these fillers can be used to achieve the desired appearance.

Which One Is Right for You⏤Botox or Filler?

When you get right down to it, Botox or filler is a personal choice and one that should be made between you and a highly qualified professional injector.

SO, HERE’S WHAT’S TYPICALLY RECOMMENDED —

• Botox is best for facial expression lines like the crease points where your muscles contract (crow’s feet and eye area, between the eyebrows and forehead).

• Botox can last 3-6 months depending on skin type.

• Filler is best for facial lines at rest — where volume is needed — like the deep lines around your mouth, plump up your pout and can also be used for nose correction and those wrinkles/lines where you sleep as well.

• Filler can last anywhere from 6-18 months depending on skin type and what filler you choose.

TO SUM IT UP

If you’ve ever considered smoothing out some of the lines and wrinkles creeping up on your face with Botox or filler, but were confused and, honestly, a little nervous because of words like Botulism and neurotoxin being thrown around – not to mention those horror stories about botched Botox – we completely understand your concern.

Some of the biggest reasons Botox and filler gets a bad rap is due to an unlicensed or inexperienced “professional” administering this injectable, especially with a wrong dosage that isn’t safe to be injected.

Our best advice?

Do your research for a highly qualified – and highly recommended – injector in your area and allow yourself plenty of time to ask questions and get comfortable with the person who may be helping your face look totally fresh – without the surgery!

truSculpt iD® vs. CoolSculpting® – A Melt the Fat or Freeze the Fat Comparison

Mon, 03 Dec 2018 03:37:35 GMT

truSculpt iD® vs. CoolSculpting® – A Melt the Fat or Freeze the Fat Comparison

When it comes to body contouring, we’re pretty sure you’ve heard the words truSculpt or CoolSculpting.

Followed by that is usually terms like “melt the fat” or “freeze the fat” when referencing these body sculpting technologies.

And often times this is where confusion sets in.

Because there’s much debate on which body contouring technology is better and more effective — to melt fat or to freeze fat.

Not only is this one of the big questions in medical aesthetics today, but it’s also on the minds of many potential clients looking to contour their body without surgery.

We know you want to target those areas on the body that can be stubborn and don’t want to let that fat go no matter how hard you exercise or eat right — like the abdomen, flanks, back, arms and even the chin area.

But how do all of these body contouring machines compare?

Let’s take a look, shall we…

A Melt The Fat or Freeze The Fat Comparison

TRUSCULPT ID® (MELT THE FAT)

• TECHNOLOGY USED?

Monopolar focused Radio Frequency.

• TREATMENT TIME?

15-minutes.

• COMFORT LEVEL?

Usually well tolerated; little to no discomfort.

• EFFECTIVENESS OF TRUSCULPT ID®?

Up to 24% permanent fat reduction.

• ANY ADVERSE EFFECTS?

None reported.

• TREATABLE AREAS:

The flexibility of applicators allows for multiple areas to be treated including chin, arms, abdomen, flanks, thighs, knees and the back area.

• SKIN TIGHTENING?

Yes.

• TREAT BMI OVER 30?

Yes.

COOLSCULPTING® (FREEZE THE FAT):

• TECHNOLOGY USED?

Cryolipolysis (fat freezing).

• TREATMENT TIME?

105 minutes to treat same area.

• COMFORT LEVEL?

Due to the suction-based applicator + post-treatment massage this can get uncomfortable.

• EFFECTIVENESS OF COOLSCULPTING®?

Up to 22% permanent fat reduction.

• ANY ADVERSE EFFECTS?

Up to a few weeks of potential numbness, nerve pain and uneven results of the treatment area.

• TREATABLE AREAS:

Potential limited treatment areas based on the design of the applicator (which is suction-based).

• SKIN TIGHTENING?

No.

• TREAT BMI OVER 30?

No.

TO SUM IT UP

Now you’ve seen the comparisons – to melt or to freeze – those stubborn areas on your body where no amount of jumping jacks, lunges, hot yoga sessions and green smoothie sipping can help.

Call us bias (we LOVE our truSculpt iD® technology ), but it looks like if you want to maximize your time, increase your potential for permanent fat reduction, experience little to no discomfort during the body contouring treatment and tighten your skin while treating your problem areas⏤ truSculpt iD® has you covered in all of those areas and then some.

If you asked us whether we’d melt our fat or freeze our fat⏤we’d simply say, “Pass me a frozen drink ‘cause it’s about to get warm up in here while I melt this fat away!”

Body Contouring Without Surgery

Mon, 05 Nov 2018 02:38:29 GMT

Body Contouring Without Surgery

I’m going to let you in on a little secret.

And I have a feeling I’m not the only one that shares this secret.

Ready for it?

Here it is: I’m stingy with my time – especially when it comes to treating myself.

Yep, I’m a get in and get out type of person (most of the time!).

Even though I have access to so many self-care and aesthetic treatments, I still shudder at the thought of any treatment or procedure taking too long.

So recently, when we were introduced to a new body contouring technology with an indicated use of one, 15-minute treatment – with visible results seen up to 12 weeks post-treatment – you could say I was more than intrigued.

I thought, who doesn’t want to melt fat cells and sculpt their body on a lunch break?

Sign me up!

And that’s what we did…

So, what is this new 15-minute, results-driven, fat blasting, body contouring without surgery technology we’re talking about?

truSculpt iD® by CUTERA

truSculpt® iD is a revolutionary non-surgical, body-sculpting treatment that allows you to personalize your ideal body in as little as one 15-minute treatment.

We at Renew are proud to bring this technology to you.

And we’re the FIRST practice in Colorado to offer truSculpt iD®...how exciting is that?!

Ok, let’s get to know this technology that offers body contouring without surgery.

Body Contouring Without Surgery

By now you’re probably wondering how truSculpt iD® works and what makes this different than other body contouring procedures.

HOW TRUSCULPT ID® WORKS

• truSculpt iD® uses innovative Monopolar RF technology to selectively target fat and therapeutically heat it – until fat cells are eliminated by passing through the body naturally.

• Average of 24% fat reduction is achieved in just one treatment.

• Can be used on most areas of the body – especially abdomen, flanks, chin, and arms.

• No visible downtime after the procedure and normal activity can be resumed immediately.

• The treatment time is dependent on the treatment size and how many areas are treated. Treatment time is typically 15 to 30 minutes to treat the abdomen and flanks.

• Results are typically visible after just one treatment, with maximum results seen after 12 weeks. Additional treatments may be required to achieve the personalized results you desire.

WHAT MAKES TRUSCULPT ID® DIFFERENT THAN OTHER BODY CONTOURING PROCEDURES?

• The treatment has minimal discomfort and has been compared to a hot stone massage.

• Because truSculpt iD® is a customized and tailored treatment to meet individual needs, most adult men and women are a candidate.

TO SUM IT UP

If you’re stingy with your time like I am but want to look and feel your best (without putting in loads of hours in at a time), truSculpt iD® is both time and body contouring friendly.

One, 15-minute treatment (that can be done on your lunch break) has the ability to help you contour and sculpt your body with no downtime and maximum results seen in as little as 12-weeks.

At Renew, we’re truly proud of this technology and what it can do to help you feel comfortable inside and out!

Just take a look at these results we’re seeing in less than 6-weeks.

If you feel less than confident with areas like the abdomen, flanks, chin and/or arms, please don’t hesitate to contact RENEW for a free body contouring consultation .

We want you to love your time with us just as much as you love the results from truSculpt iD®.

Best Non-Surgical Facelift Treatment

Mon, 08 Oct 2018 09:55:54 GMT

Best Non-Surgical Facelift Treatment

Have you looked in the mirror lately, ran your hands over your neck area and muttered the words, “ugh, turkey neck”?

But thought to yourself, “No way am I going under the knife for a nip and tuck!”

What if we said there’s a non-surgical facelift treatment to help not only the dreaded turkey neck (sagging skin), but crow’s feet and deep wrinkles as well?

And this treatment can be done during your lunchtime…(what?!).

This skin tightening procedure is called Forma (by InMode ) and not only gives you the option of a non-surgical facelift treatment, but also allows for an in-office procedure with little to no downtime.

Ok, let’s get into the details, shall we?

What Is Forma For Skin Tightening?

“Forma is the first auto-adjusting non-invasive, thermal skin treatment for deep and uniform tissue stimulation. Forma uses radio-frequency power that flows uniformly between the electrodes to provide a comfortable thermal experience with immediate and subsequent contraction.” ⏤ Forma by InMode

Ok, so what does all this radio-frequency and electrodes talk really mean?

It means that Forma is your non-surgical treatment superstar for face tightening, deep wrinkles, and collagen stimulation.

Now that you know you don’t have to go under the knife for that saggy skin, what can you expect from this Forma procedure?

NON-SURGICAL FACELIFT TREATMENT | WHAT TO EXPECT

Unlike going under the knife (and anesthesia for that matter), Forma only requires an in-office visit with your skincare professional and less than an hour of your time.

Hence why they call this the “lunch-time” procedure.

You may experience some warmth or slight tingling during the Forma treatment, but nothing that should be highly uncomfortable.

Over time your skin can reveal a more youthful, glowing appearance that doesn’t involve bandages on your face from going under the knife.

TO SUM IT UP

If you’re looking for a solution to sagging skin, crow’s feet and/or deep wrinkles, but don’t want an invasive procedure – Forma by InMode is your “lunch-time”, non-surgical facelift treatment solution!

With little to no downtime and potential results that include a tighter and younger-looking appearance, Forma could be just the skincare treatment you’re looking for.

Say so long to the “gobble, gobble neck” and save your turkey for Thanksgiving.

IPL for Sun Damage

Mon, 24 Sep 2018 09:42:04 GMT

IPL for Sun Damage

Do you feel like you’ve tried everything to get rid of that sun damage on your skin—but nothing’s worked?

Did you buy the lotions and the serums and work diligently to erase the sun damage⏤and still⏤you were left with sun spots, hyper-pigmentation, fine lines/wrinkles and/or melasma?

Frustrating, right? We so get that.

When it comes to a one-size-fits-all approach to skincare, there isn’t such a thing.

One person may achieve glowing results from certain serums and skincare products, while another person may never see the results they’re looking for with that particular regimen.

Add to the mix the fact that sun damage⏤depending on your skin type⏤is a skin condition that can be difficult to treat.

If you’ve been let down by skin care products or regimens promising sun damage help and not living up to that promise⏤we have an alternative treatment for your sun damaged skin : IPL (Intense Pulsed Light).

What Is IPL?

As mentioned IPL stands for Intense Pulsed Light and can also be referred to as a “Photo Facial”.

At Renew , we use Lumecca™ IPL by InMode , which helps to treat and target skin conditions through selective photothermolysis (also known as laser resurfacing).

Okay, now that you know what IPL is, let’s take a look at why IPL can be the powerhouse treatment of sun damage…

IPL TREATMENT OF SUN DAMAGE

With skincare, most professionals want to start off slow and/or ease you into treatments for your skin.

Sometimes, however, IPL is exactly the skincare tool that’s needed to get in there and treat stubborn sun damage.

IPL TREATMENT CAN BE USED FOR

• Light and dark skin

• Allows for the potential to treat varying skin types and conditions that could include photo-damage, superficial vessels, rosacea, skin texture and/or facial pigmentation.

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM IPL

1-5 IPL treatments are recommended (around the 3rd treatment is when most patients begin to see results) – with mild downtime around 7-10 days.

Keep in mind, post IPL treatment you will notice the pigment (especially the darker/damaged spots) pull to the surface of your skin – that means don’t be shocked if spots on your face look darker in this time period; the IPL treatment is working (but always contact your skincare professional with any concerns and follow-up).

Yearly IPL treatments are recommended for maintenance.

IPL for sun damage aims to reveal even skin tone, texture and glowing, dewy skin!

TO SUM IT UP

Summer is fun.

Sun damage is not.

We feel you, truly.

And sometimes, no matter what you’ve done in the past to help erase those dark spots and uneven skin tone, a sun damage ninja is needed: say hello to IPL (Intense Pulsed Light).

As always, speak with your skincare professional to make sure IPL is right for you and the best course of action for your skin type.

Skin Prep for Chemical Peels

Mon, 03 Sep 2018 06:38:53 GMT

Skin Prep for Chemical Peels

If you're asking yourself: “Do I really need to prep my skin before a chemical peel?”

Our answer would be a major, shout-from-the-rooftops, “Yes: skin prep for chemical peels is a real thing!”

And here’s why…

Your skin is delicate and needs a lot of love from you.

Especially if you’re new to receiving skincare treatments of any kind (facials, peels, laser, etc.).

Now, let’s talk about skin prep for chemical peels…

Why Do I Need To Skin Prep for Chemical Peels

If you’re a newbie to professional skin care treatments like facials, peels and/or lasers of any kind — consider your skin prep-worthy.

Now, if you believe yourself to be an expert and have your medical aesthetician on speed dial then skin prep can take on a different meaning.

But let’s just say you’re new to any in-office treatments for your skin, or it’s been a while since you’ve seen your favorite skincare expert...

Think of your skin like a hot date — you prepare like crazy don’t you?

You take a long bath or shower.

You find the right outfit.

You take extra time to get all fancy.

You might even find yourself eating healthier and guzzling water more than usual.

Why?

Because you want to put your best “face” forward, right?

Well, that’s a lot like skin prep...

Because you want your in-office “date” to go as well as expected…

You want the treatment to work smarter, not harder.

And that’s why you skin prep.

Ok…you know WHY you prep your skin, but exactly HOW do you do that?

How Do I Skin Prep for Chemical Peels?

First and foremost — if you’re not working with a skincare professional right now, this is definitely the time to start researching and testing out consultations with those in your area.

Every skin type and person are different, so a thorough skin analysis should help whomever you’re working with lead you in the right direction for your skin.

Ok, you’ve met with your skin care expert and a chemical peel(s) is recommended.

(4) Skin Prep Tips for Chemical Peels

1. STOP THE SUN DAMAGE

For the (not) love of sunspots, hyperpigmentation and all things sun damage — get out of the sun!

If it’s summertime, grab a hat, loads of sunscreen and learn to love the shade. Nothing adds more damage to your skin quicker than the sun.

So, give your skin a break and prep it by loving the sun indoors or in some major shade.

2. ENZYME PEELS

Enzyme peels are perfect pre-treatments to chemical peels.

The enzyme peel (a blend of natural fruit ingredients) works as a gentle exfoliant to remove the top layer of skin and helps speed up cell turnover.

This peel can instantly help your skin look glowing and fresh and ready for other skincare treatments.

3. RETINOLS

This naturally occurring form of Vitamin A (retinol) targets cell turnover and aids in skin exfoliation.

If you haven’t noticed, exfoliating those dead skin cells is a big step in skin prep and retinols are excellent in that department.

4. DERMAPLANING

This procedure — you guessed it — is an exfoliation ninja.

A sterile, surgical scalpel is used to “shave” the surface of the skin. Dermaplaning gently removes dead skin and “peach fuzz” hair off the top layer of skin.

Leaving you with skin that is fresh and ready to absorb all the good stuff that can aide in skincare and healthy aging.

To Sum It Up

If you’re thinking about upping your skincare game make sure you consult with your favorite skincare professional and let them guide you with the best course of action for your individual skin.

When skin prep is recommended keep in mind that can include everything from enzyme peels to dermaplaning.

And one of the best options you can choose for your skin — prep or no prep — is to watch how long you’re in the sun and make shade and sunscreen your friend.

Looking for a skin care expert in the Pueblo and/or Southern Colorado area?

Call Renew today and start your skin health and wellness journey!

Lip Fillers ⏤Your Guide to the Perfect Pout

Mon, 20 Aug 2018 05:54:06 GMT

Lip Fillers⏤Your Guide to the Perfect Pout

I want to real-talk with you about something that’s kind of taboo…

Lip fillers.

Yes, we're talkin’ injections in your lips.

Don’t gasp, we're here to help you maneuver this topic…

Do you ever think about getting lip fillers, but you’re too afraid people will liken you to the next Kylie Jenner?

Or perhaps you’re afraid you’ll receive a botched job and end up looking like those duck-lip selfies nobody wants to see?

You’re not the only one with these thoughts.

Today, we’re going to talk about all things lip fillers ⏤ your guide to a perfect pout!

But first, you have to remember to...

DO YOUR RESEARCH

You wouldn’t buy a brand-new house without spending time looking for the best real estate agent, neighborhood and dialing in your preferences, correct?

Exactly. Do the same with lip fillers.

Research doctors in your area, go in for a consultation and definitely take your time.

Even though lip fillers are meant to be temporary, you’re still injecting a needle into your lips ⏤ make sure you’re completely comfortable with the doctor and procedure you choose.

And remember ⏤ you can always change your mind! No pressure just find out what works for you.

Ok, let’s talk about all things lip fillers…

WHAT ARE LIP FILLERS?

Most lip fillers are temporary and contain Hyaluronic Acid (in different forms). These temporary, hyaluronic acid lip fillers are FDA approved and ⏤ unlike any other time in history ⏤ are highly popular.

There are different versions and names for these lip fillers:

• RESTYLANE SILK ⏤ known to be a subtle enhancer.

• RESTYLANE & RESTYLANE-L ⏤ known for volume; the only difference is the Restylane-L has lidocaine in it for potential prevention of pain.

• JUVÉDERM VOLBELLA XC ⏤ lip line definition, in addition to smoothing out fine lines found around the mouth area.

• JUVÉDERM ULTRA XC ⏤ known for a plush lip look.

Depending on the look you’re going for, a combination of these lip fillers can be used to achieve the desired appearance.

Ok, now you know what lip fillers are ⏤ what does the procedure entail?

LIP FILLERS⏤PROCEDURE

After cleansing the area, potentially applying a topical numbing cream (and allowing it to kick in) and then the injections – you’re looking at less than an hour from start to finish.

Of course, this is a ballpark figure, so don’t forget to ask your injector what their process looks like and how long a visit will take.

...But is it painful?

LIP FILLERS & PAIN

Isn’t this the question we always ask – but will it hurt?

What’s that famous quote, “Pain is beauty.”

Hmmm, perhaps some truth to that.

As for lip filler, the most pain people feel is the lidocaine shot.

After that, the filler is usually described as a pricking sensation that is soon followed by the filler moving through the lips (potentially uncomfortable pressure here).

You’ll most likely see volume right away but swelling and bruising can occur for up to a few days after the procedure.

We don’t recommend an evening photo shoot after your session!

LIP FILLERS & SIDE EFFECTS?

Small bumps may occur around your lips but usually go away after a week or so.

With any procedure, serious (but rare) complications can occur.

For lip fillers, blood clots can occur as well as significant pain or discoloration. Please get in touch with your doctor immediately, if you experience these side effects.

LIP FILLERS⏤CARE & MAINTENANCE

Post-procedure you want to keep your blood flow to a minimum. That means no exercise for a couple of days and definitely keep those hands away from your lips for at least 48 hours.

If you love your (new) perfect pout, touch-ups are ideal. Speak with your injector about your lifestyle (Full of movement? Love the couch?)

Those factors can help determine when your ideal touch-up window is.

TO SUM IT UP

So, you’re thinking about what your perfect pout would look like?

To lip filler or not…that is the question.

As the diligent student you are, do your research and take your time.

Remember most lip fillers are temporary (speak to your injector about what can be done if you absolutely hate how your lips turn out with filler).

In less than an hour, you’ll probably feel a small amount of pain and experience discomfort, but that should go away.

(Contact your doctor immediately if you experience extreme pain and discoloration.)

And in a few days, you’ll be ready for your close-up, darling!

How MonaLisa Touch® Supports Your Vaginal Health

Mon, 13 Aug 2018 05:35:22 GMT

How MonaLisa® Touch Supports Your Vaginal Health

We know talking about your vaginal health isn’t something that comes up in most conversations, but as MonaLisa Touch® says, “It’s OK to talk about it.™”

And that is exactly what we are going to do.

Because if you suffer from any vaginal discomfort or intimate health concerns, there’s no better time than now to start feeling better.

What Is MonaLisa Touch®?

MonaLisa Touch® is a treatment option for vaginal health that can treat symptoms such as vaginal dryness, burning, elasticity, and challenges related to menopausal symptoms and painful intercourse, as well as urinary incontinence.

How MonaLisa Touch® Works

MonaLisa Touch® is fast and safe and helps generate new elastin, vascularization, and collagen to the vaginal mucosa by using a gentle, fractional CO2 laser with a vaginal probe that’s inserted into your vagina and delivers laser energy pulses-- all while only taking less than 5 minutes!

This in-office procedure is virtually painless and requires no anesthesia.

Three MonaLisa Touch® treatments are recommended (in 6-week increments) and most women report a significant improvement after their initial treatment.

2 Ways MonaLisa Touch® Supports Your Vaginal Health

1. Vaginal Atrophy (aka, “dang I’m feelin’ like a desert down there”)

Vaginal atrophy is when the vaginal walls begin to thin and become dry or inflamed due to the body producing less estrogen.

This typically affects women who are peri and post-menopausal, as well as those who have had both ovaries surgically removed, and those who’ve undergone chemotherapy treatments and pelvic radiation therapy for cancer.

This can also affect your sex life because of the inflamed and dry vaginal walls which can create uncomfortable friction during intercourse.

2. Incontinence (aka, “whoops I just bent down and now I need a clean-up on aisle 3”)

Urinary and/or stress incontinence refers to what happens when an activity such as sneezing, coughing, heavy lifting or running places pressure on your bladder. Stress incontinence does not equate to a psychological stress, although it can be a very frustrating and embarrassing condition to contend with.

Stress incontinence is more common in women than men and some contributing factors include childbirth, prostate and/or pelvic surgery, obesity, smoking and high impact activities.

You may have urinary and/or stress incontinence if you experience urine leakage when you: laugh, cough, sneeze, get out of a car, exercise, lift something heavy, stand up and/or have sex.

Your Next Steps

If you suffer from these symptoms, please speak with your healthcare provider, especially one that specializes in MonaLisa Touch®

There are options and it doesn’t have to be painful.

Benefits of a Hydrating Facial

Mon, 13 Aug 2018 05:17:03 GMT

Benefits of a Hydrating Facial

What happens when your skin feels like you just spent a week in the Sahara Desert and no amount of moisturizer is helping your face feel less parched?

After you hear the benefits I’m about to tell you, you’re going to treat yourself to a Hydrating Facial.

Why you ask?

Because this Hydrating Facial can help solve your dry, itchy, irritated skin problems.

Ready to hear all about this water-rich, dewy-skin inducing facial?

Ok, let’s get started…

What Is A Hydrating Facial?

This facial actually does exactly what it says: hydrates.

The Hydrating Facial is usually a 7-step process that looks like this:

1. Cleanse

2. Tone

3. Exfoliate

4. Serum (love an added ZO® Booster Serum )

5. Massage

6. Mask

7. Protect

Every skincare professional is different (and so is your skincare), which means your facial may differ from these steps.

But the goal is the same: hydrate that face!

Ok, you know how the Hydrating Facial works ⏤ what are the benefits?

BENEFITS OF A HYDRATING FACIAL

Another reason to love this facial ⏤ especially if your skin doesn’t react well with facials in general ⏤ is this one is suitable for all skin types (even the sensitive ones!)

Here's 5 benefits of a hydrating facial your face will love⏤

#1: Hydration = Less Irritation ⏤ moisture is locked in with this facial and allows the skin to heal and repair over time. Say “buh-bye” dry, flaky, irritated skin.

#2: Improved Skin Tone & Texture ⏤ exfoliation does its job without stripping your face of necessary moisture and oil. With dead skin cells gone, your skin tone and texture reveal a smooth, even surface. Hello, mirror!

#3: Bright & Supple Complexion ⏤ that hydrating serum works its magic and aids in moisture retention, balance, and circulation. This gives way to skin that’s full and bright.Ready for your little black dress moment

#4: Decreased Oil (in excess) & Breakouts⏤ too much oil and you’re prone to breakouts. Too little oil and your face is begging for moisture. This Hydrating Facial balances and regulates oil production on your face, so you feel more like you’re treating your face than servicing your car.

#5: Enhanced Skin Care Product Absorption ⏤ because your skin has been cleansed, toned, exfoliated and protected with this facial, the absorption of skin care products on your face will be easier to penetrate the skin. Better absorption means your skin care products have a better chance of working and supporting your skin. Can you say cha-ching?

TO SUM IT UP

If you have dry, irritated skin and all the moisturizing in the world isn’t working for you ⏤ a Hydrating Facial is something to consider.

And if your skin is the sensitive type or you think facials don’t work for you ⏤ a Hydrating Facial might just be your ticket to less skin irritation and a brighter, suppler complexion.

As always, I encourage you to speak with a professional skin care expert who can help you navigate the unique needs of your skin.

Your Guide: Treatment for Sun Damaged Skin

Mon, 06 Aug 2018 04:41:16 GMT

Your Guide: Treatment for Sun Damaged Skin

It’s summertime.

You soak up the sunshine, read your book by the pool, drink that sparkling water…

And watch your sun damaged skin age.

Wait, what? That’s not the story you told yourself going into the sun, did you?

You think you’re young, so age is on your side.

You figured by wearing sunscreen you're totally protected.

You tell yourself you’re only out there for a small amount of time, so a little sun won’t matter.

Forget what you think right now, we have a guide for you⏤treatment for sun damaged skin⏤and everything you need to know.

Vitamin D & The Causes of Sun Damage

You know the sun can definitely cause damage to the skin, but the sun isn’t all sagging skin and wrinkle-inducing.

The sun is essential for Vitamin D production. And the body needs Vitamin D for hormone regulation, a healthy immune system and strong bones (just to name a few perks of getting Vitamin D).

HOW MUCH IS TOO MUCH SUN?

According to the National Institutes of Health ⏤

Too much sun on the skin = sun damage city. No fun.

So, how does this happen?

When sun rays penetrate the dermis (where collagen and elasticity live), this is where you’ll see free radicals going crazy and causing damage to your skin.

The exact thing that nobody wants for their skin.

When understanding your relationship to the sun make sure you take into consideration your skin type, where you live (how harsh the sun can or cannot be in your area) and how much sun your skin has been exposed to over your lifetime (tanning beds, sun worshipper, etc.).

Your body needs Vitamin D, but it doesn’t need sun damage and as you can see there’s a fine line of when healthy sun exposure ends, and sun damage begins.

WHAT DOES SUN DAMAGE LOOK LIKE?

Sun damage is like that sneaky kid at a family dinner.

The kid is off somewhere being super quiet, and you think everything is just fine.

No sound, no worries, right?

You know better, though. Something is lurking.

Something is building up.

And then you see it ⏤ a heaping cloud of flour ⏤ right before your eyes.

How did that kid get flour?

How did I not see this happening?
That’s how sun damage works ⏤ it sneaks up on you.

You sun worship in your teens and 20’s, get hip to skin care and sunscreen in your 30’s and one day that cloud of flour ⏤ err, sun damage ⏤ explodes right in front of your face.

Sun damage usually appears in the form of⏤

Sunburn
Dark/Age Spots
Melasma
Fine Lines & Wrinkles
Loose/Sagging Skin

All things you don’t like to see on your skin, but can appear out of nowhere and overtime.

TREATMENT FOR SUN DAMAGED SKIN

In a perfect sun-loving world, the best treatment for sun damaged skin is prevention.

Right now (in this moment) and moving forward you can help your skin by limiting sun exposure for your skin type and slathering on that sunscreen like it’s your job.

But, don’t worry, even if you haven’t used prevention most of your life for the sun, here are some tips and treatment options for your sun damaged skin⏤

IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) ⏤ Powerful intense pulsed light that will treat pigmented and vascular lesions such as age spots, sun damage, spider veins, rosacea, and freckles. After just one treatment you may notice significant improvements in the complexion of your skin. Multiple treatments are recommended.

Hydrate ⏤ While you’re chugging down water and counting your ounces of hydration, don’t forget to moisturize externally! We love our Renew Skincare Line moisturizer for all-around skin rejuvenation and restoration of your skins protective barrier.

TO SUM IT UP

I know you wouldn’t go looking for sun damage, but if ever you look in the mirror one day and wonder, “Where did these spots and/or fine lines come from all of a sudden?” remember all that time you may have spent in the sun.

Stay hydrated, lather on that sunscreen and know your skin type and limit your sun exposure before you even think about spending time in the sun.

And if you want to treat sun damage (or prevent it), know there are options out there like IPL, sunscreen and don’t forget to hydrate internally with water intake and externally with a strong moisturizer.

Don’t forget to speak to your favorite skincare professional for the best treatment options that are tailored to your unique skin or request an appointment below and we'd be happy to help you.

10 Ways to Bring That Spark Back to Your Relationship

Sun, 22 Jul 2018 04:05:47 GMT

10 Ways to Bring That Spark Back to Your Relationship

Is the seven-year itch true?

Do relationships hit a certain point at that 7-year mark and everything just goes downhill?

According to biological anthropologist Helen Fisher (who studied if the 7-year itch really did exist) says, “I began by studying worldwide data on marriage and divorce and noticed that although the median duration of marriage was seven years, of the couples who divorced, most did so around their fourth year together…”

Are we talking four-year itch now instead of seven?

Now, we’re no biological anthropologist and have no studies under our belt, but we definitely have some tips and tricks up our sleeve to help you go the distance in your relationship.

Whether you’re in a new relationship, or you’ve spent plenty of time celebrating anniversaries ⏤ sometimes that spark gets lost along the way.

In a relationship…

Sometimes we get in a rut.

Sometimes we take for granted the other person.

Sometimes we need to press the reset button and start over.

Wherever you’re at in the journey with your partner, we conjured up 10 ways to bring that spark back to your relationship.

Let’s dig in…

10 WAYS TO BRING THAT SPARK BACK TO YOUR RELATIONSHIP

1. Check Yourself ⏤ Women ⏤ especially if you’re nearing, or in menopause ⏤ go through so many hormonal changes that you may not be aware are affecting you.

If you feel out of whack, or experience symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, low sex drive and/or mood and sleep disturbances speak with your doctor who can run tests and potentially recommend treatment options that will help you get back to being you again.

2. Communicate ⏤ How many times do you just flat out not listen to your partner? Most often your partner is giving you cues and signals as to what is going on with them (bad day at work, not feeling so hot, contemplating a career change, etc.) without saying anything.

Listen, be open and it doesn’t hurt to learn what love language you and your partner speak ( take the quiz ), so you both communicate better.

3. Go Back in Time ⏤ We know the past isn’t a great place to live. However, think about the time when you first met -- what did you do for fun? How did you connect? Remember how it all started and what kept you moving forward and cultivate that now.

4. Be Playful ⏤ Seek adventure. Go on a date somewhere outside your comfort zone. Play laser tag. Flirt. Be spontaneous. Do something different. Make play a priority in your relationship and see a new side of each other.

5. Be Kind ⏤ This might sound like, well duh, but how often do you initiate a small act of kindness? Make your partners lunch. Buy their favorite ice cream. Pick up the towel. Say “thank you” more often. Acknowledge their best attributes.

6. Kiss Me ⏤ Not only is a smooch a big sign of love, it’s also good for your health. In one study ⏤ decreased cholesterol and stress, with increased relationship satisfaction – was noted. Now go on and get your kiss on!

7. Connect More ⏤ Whether that be ramping up your sex life, or cuddling on the couch during a Netflix binge, physical connection is helpful to bring that spark back to your relationship. And it doesn’t require a lot of time; just a few minutes of a strong embrace can help you feel on the same page with your partner.

8. Hit the Pillow Together ⏤ By going to bed together at the same time you can use those occasions to share more deeply about your day, or what you’re going through ⏤ uninterrupted.

With kids, activities and a career, it’s sometimes difficult to connect during the day. But, once both of your heads hit the pillow, you are literally in your own little world. Enjoy it – even if it’s just a sweet “I love you” and bedtime cuddles.

9. Express Yourself ⏤ Many times, we hold back because we don’t know what our partner will think about a sudden idea or change of heart. Express whatever you’re going through.

Nobody stays the exact same over time, we grow as humans and so should a relationship. Express yourself (thoughts, ideas, etc.) so you both can grow together through different experiences.

10. Talk to Someone ⏤ Whether that be a therapist, couples’ counseling, or your best friend – talk it out. You’re not alone and there’s no shame in seeking help and outside guidance for yourself and/or your relationship.

Don’t let little snags along the way weigh down your relationship.

With these tips and your openness to get to know yourself and each other ⏤ sparks will be ready to fly!

How Hormones Affect Your Relationship

Mon, 16 Jul 2018 03:43:03 GMT

How Hormones Affect Your Relationship

Does your partner remark about your hormones?

“Wow, tread lightly around her today!”

“Are your hormones raging, darling?’

“You’re acting like a crazy person!”

When you hear these words does a little part of you think, “Yes, you are exactly right ⏤ I feel all out of whack.”

Sometimes you know that it’s hormones affecting you and other times you might not even realize hormones may be the culprit of your irritability, brain fog, fatigue and a laundry list of other symptoms.

Not only can hormones disturb your way of life but think about the impression hormones can leave on your relationship (not feeling in the mood, headaches, lack of desire, up and down moods, potential weight gain, etc.)

How Hormones Impact Your Relationship

It’s probably only a half-joke when your partner refers to your mood swings and why you just can't seem to regulate your body temperature.

But these feelings can be real and can impact your life.

So keep in mind: you're NOT a crazy person, your hormones are.

Do any of these sound familiar?

Fatigue
Mood Changes
Decreased Mental Ability
Hot Flashes/Night Sweats
Weight Gain
Decreased Sex Drive
Sleep Problems
Always Cold
Hair Loss/Breakage
Dry Wrinkled Skin

If these symptoms are common to you, an imbalance in your hormones could be taking place.

This could also account for those times in your relationship where your mood swings took over, or you lacked intimacy and just didn't know why.

A Treatment Option To Balance Your Hormones

Thankfully, your experience with hormone imbalance has a treatment option ⏤ BioTE .

In short, BioTE is your happy hormone helper.

WHAT IS BIOTE®?

Bio-identical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) is a natural treatment option for patients and is delivered via pellet therapy.

Pellet Therapy comes in the forms of pellets which are placed under the skin, with little downtime, and are more natural for your body, therefore, the chance of negative interactions is lessened.

These pellets have the same structure as naturally occurring human hormones and are plant-derived and found in nature.

BIOTE® PELLET THERAPY:

More consistent with dosing versus another hormone therapy
More sustainable for your body; pills and creams can create an uncomfortable rollercoaster effect.
Studies show improvements in conditions like PMS, anxiety, osteoporosis, heart disease, menopause, and depressions.

If you’ve read the article this far, we hope you can now see some light (through your potential hormone imbalance).

Not only can your hormones improve, but other areas of your life can as well (like your relationship(s) - especially with your partner).

Next Steps

Symptoms sound familiar?

Ready for some happy hormone help?

If you’re in the Pueblo, Colorado and/or Southern Colorado region ⏤

Take this quiz to find out if BHRT (bio-identical hormone replacement therapy) is right for you (and find a provider if you’re not in the Pueblo, CO area)
Call or book an appointment with Dr. Elijah

Still on the fence? Check out these testimonials from real women who've experienced what BioTE® can do for you.

Adult Acne⏤Why You're Still Breaking Out & Treatment Options

Mon, 18 Jun 2018 03:11:47 GMT

Adult Acne - Why You're Still Breaking Out & Treatment Options

When you were a teenager do you recall complaining about your hormone-fueled teenage acne and people telling you that once you grow out of puberty – your acne will disappear?

But then it didn’t.

And every year you celebrate a birthday ⏤ in your adult years ⏤ you think to yourself (breakouts and all), “Can puberty last into your 30’s?”

We know acne is a broad topic and depending who you ask for the “cure or solution” ⏤ you’re bound to hear a variety of answers.

We definitely don’t want to add to the confusion of why you’re still breaking out now that you’re an adult.

So, we decided to give you a comprehensive view of potential reasons why you’re still breaking out and treatment options.

Let’s get started!

Why Am I Still Breaking Out?

HORMONES

Did someone say hormones? Yes, you’re probably nodding your head thinking, “Yep, that’s the adult acne culprit right there."

Hormones don’t just stop surging after puberty; they have a way of working their way back into your life – especially if you’re a woman that has a menstrual cycle.

When you're near your menstrual cycle, your levels of estrogen can dip and your testosterone levels become unchecked. Testosterone (an androgen) can increase oil production which in turn leaves you more susceptible to clogged pores and pimples.

STRESS

Cortisol ⏤ a stress hormone ⏤ increases when you experience stress. And in a world that is full of hustle and bustle; stress can be found around every corner.

When this stress hormone spikes, it can increase oil production and in turn, cause acne.

If you’re looking for a mysterious culprit to adult acne ⏤ dig deeper because stress might be playing a major part in your breakouts.

LIFESTYLE (DIET, ENVIRONMENT, WEATHER)

Dietary changes like reducing or cutting out dairy and refined sugar, as well as choosing grass-fed, hormone-free animal proteins can lessen breakouts.

And in some cases, women who move from a rural area to the city can see an acne breakout due to pollution. If you live in the city and spent the day outside – be sure to wash your face once coming inside.

Weather can also add to breakouts. If you live in a dry climate, or travel between extreme climates this can add to lack of moisture retention and oil production. Be sure to maintain a consistent skin regimen and be aware of the upcoming seasons, so you can prepare your skin.

While there may be other factors to adult acne, this is a good place to start when dissecting what may be the culprit in your breakouts.

Adult Acne Treatment Options

With adults, cell turnover is slower due to age and in turn, the healing of adult skin can take longer than your teenage years.

Pigmentation, sensitivity, and dehydration can complicate acne, as well as redness lasting longer as an adult.

These reasons are why it’s crucial to not only understand how and why you are experiencing breakouts but how to treat them as well.

Here are some treatment options we recommend ⏤

WORK W/ A SKIN CARE PROFESSIONAL

Not only can you get a customized skincare regimen when you work with a licensed aesthetician and/or doctor, but you’ll also have access to more medical grade products (depending on the skin care expert you work with).

And if you're experiencing hormonal imbalances, working with a doctor can help you decipher which course of action for your skin care is best for you.

SUPPLEMENTS

If you think your breakouts are due to hormones, supplements like zinc and high-quality omega-3 fish oil may be beneficial. Probiotics have also been known to create a healthy gut biome, which can also support healthy skin.

CELLUMA

This light therapy is designed especially for acne--and with no side effects or downtime--is a perfect treatment for breakouts.

ZO SKIN HEALTH PROGRAMS FOR ACNE

Medical-grade products like ZO Skin Health can target areas of inflammation ⏤ not only for treatment but for prevention as well.

Be sure to work with a physician/medical spa that specializes in ZO Products.

We’re sure you can find tons of adult acne treatment options on the Internet today. However, we do recommend working with a skin care professional that is not just knowledgeable about acne, but also the factors that could play into your breakouts.

Teenage Acne (Tips for Prevention & Treatment)

Mon, 11 Jun 2018 02:47:43 GMT

Teenage Acne (Tips for Prevention & Treatment)

Can you ever get a straight answer about what causes teenage acne?

Your grandma says it’s caused by this, your mom says it’s caused by that and your new best friend just read an article that says the cause has nothing to do with what grandma and mom have to say about teenage acne.

Well, we’d love to give you straight answers about the struggle of teenage acne, as well as some tips for prevention and treatment. Sound good?

Now, just because your family and friends have differing thoughts on teenage acne doesn’t mean we do.

Here’s what we know and would love to share with you…

What Causes Acne In Teens?

Acne, especially teenage acne, isn’t always caused by those fast food runs loaded with French fries or eating all that chocolate while you binge-watch Netflix.

Contrary to a lot of rumors out there, acne isn’t always connected to what you eat (that doesn’t give you a permission slip to go crazy on all the fried food though – some doctors still say the gut is highly connected to what shows up on your face ).

Teenage acne is usually caused by factors like excess oil and dead skin cells, genetics and most commonly ⏤ a surge of hormones at that particular age.

This is due to an overproduction of sebum because of the surge in hormones that can send glands and organs into overdrive.

When the age of puberty hits and sex hormones are being secreted and are all over the place you may start to see acne pop up on your back and chest, along with enlarged pores.

A particular hormone ⏤ Cortisol ⏤ also increases during times of stress and adolescence; this can cause more sex hormones to sky rocket, which leads to increased inflammation and oil production.

And if you’re thinking about which gender this affects in particular – teen males tend to experience teenage acne for a longer period, while teen females usually experience short-term breakouts that correlate to their menstrual cycle.

Teenage Acne Prevention

Some of the best ways to treat acne is to look at prevention. Here’s a couple tips to help you with teenage acne prevention.

CLEANSE AFTER SWEATING

Heat and friction are not your best friends when it comes to acne. If you work up a sweat during a workout or find yourself in the heat -- shower and cleanse after you’re done working up a good sweat. This can help keep the pores clean and unclogged.

DON’T WASH TOO MUCH

If you think washing your face and body more than twice a day is going to help your acne breakouts-- think again. Excess washing can dry your skin out and not only cause irritation but create more oil and dead skin.

Stick to washing your face and body no more than twice a day. Be sure to stay away from harsh astringents and using alcohol that can dry and strip your face.

NO PICKING

We know the urge to pop that pimple staring at you in the mirror is of high importance, but for the love of your skin and your future skin ⏤ DON’T!

Picking and popping can damage the skin (scarring) and not to mention all the dirt you place on your skin from your fingers and hands while you poke and pop (gross is right!).

MAINTAIN A SKIN CARE REGIMEN

Having a daily routine for your skin care is crucial to prevention and treatment of teenage acne.

Visit a skin care professional who can analyze your individual needs and create a custom program just for you.

Keep in mind that starting a specialized skin care regimen for teenage acne takes time, so be patient, it may take up to 8 weeks or more before results can be seen.

Teenage Acne Treatment

Now that you know those greasy foods and chocolate aren’t ALL to blame for teenage acne (hormones, we’re looking at you) and you have some awesome prevention tips – here’s even more treatment options to consider as well.

In collaboration with your skin care professional, these treatments can be effective in treating acne:

Celluma ⏤ this light therapy is designed especially for acne and with no side effects or downtime, this is a perfect treatment for teenagers.

Acne Lift ⏤ this blend of AHA’s and BHA’s, combined with protective agents, aim to effectively treat all levels of acne.

3-Step Peel ⏤ this in-office peel followed by an at-home treatment – that produces long lasting results versus ordinary peels – is suitable for all skin types.

We know teenage acne can be a time in life that is uncomfortable but remember there is help and often times, this phase in life is usually temporary.

Reach out to a skin care professional that can support you in your teenage acne journey or follow some of our prevention and treatment tips to see you through this time.

A Skin Care Alternative

Mon, 04 Jun 2018 12:01:07 GMT

A Skin Care Alternative

What if we said NASA plays a major role in your skin care?

You’re probably thinking, “Well, if we can send a man to the moon, we should definitely be able to do something about these spots on my face or lines around my eyes by now.”

Yes. We are so on the same page.

And that’s why we want to tell you that NASA has your back when it comes to anti-aging and acne.

So, what does NASA have to do with your skin care?

Welcome to the innovation of Celluma light therapy ⏤ a skin care alternative.

What Is Celluma?

Celluma is an all-in-one low-level light therapy ⏤ cleared by the FDA and backed by clinical research ⏤ devised for anti-aging and acne skin care.

"Celluma light therapy works safely and effectively, without abrasive chemicals, harmful UV-rays or side effects and is a non-toxic, non-abrasive treatment."

- Celluma by BioPhotas®

How Celluma Works

“Inspired by light. Proven by science.” ⏤ Celluma

BioPhotas® (the company behind Celluma) explains how this skin care alternative works:

“In the same way that plants use chlorophyll to convert sunlight into plant tissue, high intensity light emitting diodes (LEDs) utilizing specific, proven wavelengths of light can trigger a natural biostimulatory effect in human tissue.

Research has shown that phototherapy can increase circulation, accelerate tissue repair, kill acne bacteria, decrease inflammation, improve skin tone, texture and clarity, as well as ease muscle and joint pain, stiffness, spasm, and arthritis.

Research indicates that cells absorb particles of light (photons) and transform their energy into adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the form of energy that cells utilize.

The resulting elevation of ATP is then used to power metabolic processes; synthesize DNA, RNA, proteins, enzymes, and other products needed to repair or regenerate cell components; foster mitosis or cell proliferation; and restore homeostasis.

Simply put, the LED light source provides compromised cells with added energy so the cells performance is enhanced. For example, fibroblast cells will increase collagen and elastic production in connective tissue.”

Benefits of Celluma

Acne Treatment : diminishes acne bacteria, clears existing breakouts and restores skin's healthy appearance.

Anti-Aging : increases collagen and elastin production, reduces the look of fine lines and wrinkles and improves firmness and resilience of skin.

A Skin Care Alternative

We're extremely excited to offer this cutting-edge service for our clients ⏤ especially those with stubborn acne and anyone looking for new and alternative ways to support the anti-aging process.

Celluma can be done in a series of treatments (twice a week for six weeks) and the anti-aging and acne component can be an add-on for facials we provide.

Next time you're in, don't forget to ask us about Celluma for your customized skincare plan. It may be the added boost you need for your glow!

Can Sugar Age You?

Mon, 14 May 2018 11:36:39 GMT

Can Sugar Age You?

You’re probably wondering what sugar has to do with aging.

Can that Snickers bar, or ice cream make you look older than you really are?

The easy answer is: yes.

How that scientifically happens is for a Bill Nye the Science Guy episode, but we will give you the overview and let you know how sugar can be a major factor in your aging process.

It All Starts With Glycation

Glycation (noun): the bonding of a sugar molecule to a protein or lipid molecule without enzymatic regulation.

What does that really mean you’re wondering ?

When you eat food like a carbohydrate your body will break it down into a sugar (glucose and fructose). Your body, then, will be fueled by those sugars.

However, as the aging process goes, and high-glycemic foods are part of your diet (especially if you’re a diabetic), the sugars you consume react with fats and protein in a non-typical way and end up producing AGEs (advanced glycation endproducts) that are molecules which can be harmful.

AGES

Through diabetic research, scientists discovered that rapid aging can occur with increased AGEs. The higher the blood glucose level; the more AGEs (if ever you need to remember an acronym⏤this might be the one to keep in mind, right?)

And while we’re talking about aging, UV ray exposure can also speed up glycation. So, when we suggest wearing sunscreen⏤here’s another reason why!

AGEs can also effect:

Collagen and elasticity
Eczema
Acne
Rosacea
Psoriasis
Uneven skin tone
Age spots
Inflammation
Fine lines and wrinkles
Tumors and skin cancer

Especially as you age, AGEs can not only be caused by the food you consume but also internally due to inflammation from lifestyle choices (smoking, excess sun exposure, diet, hormones, stress, etc.).

That’s why it’s extremely important to not only take care of your skin but your overall health as well.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT & HOW TO SLOW-DOWN THE AGING PROCESS

The good news about glycation is you can decrease and potentially prevent AGEs with food!

Here are some tips to help you choose food that fuels your aging process (in a good way!) and lifestyle choices for a brighter you.

ANTI-GLYCATION FOODS:

Vitamin A ⏤ Carrots, kale, spinach, pumpkin, liver, and cantaloupe.

Vitamin C ⏤Camu camu, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, guava, and citrus.

Vitamin E ⏤Olive oil, walnut oil, wheat germ oil, oats, tomatoes, and carrots.

Bioflavonoids ⏤Citrus, berries, onions, tea, red wine, dark chocolate, and sea buckthorn.

Polyphenols ⏤Berries, tea, dark chocolate, walnuts, peanuts, and pomegranates.

LIFESTYLE:

• Maintain a healthy weight & blood sugar levels
• Exercise
• Wear sun protection

• Consider a supplement (Carnosine and B1 and B6)
• Be aware of your alcohol intake (alcohol can be loaded with sugar)

YOUR NEXT STEPS

Glycation and AGEs are deep topics with many layers to it; this one blog post just scratches the surface.

We recommend speaking with your healthcare and/or medical skincare professional for further guidance on how sugar correlates with aging for your individual care.

10 Reasons Why A Physical Is So Important

Mon, 30 Apr 2018 11:18:37 GMT

10 Reasons Why A Physical Is So Important

Do you remember growing up and every year before school started you had to go in for that dreaded physical at your doctor’s office?

The one where you’d have to get dressed in that god-awful, paper towel looking gown that ties in the back. Thankfully they make gown’s that are actually made of fabric now⏤whew.

You may not be a teenager anymore (maybe you have kids that are), but even as an adult getting a physical every year can be scoffed at.

What if we said – even looking silly in that gown⏤getting a physical is so important. We even have 10 reasons for you to consider why scheduling and going to your physical, yearly, is super imperative.

And did we mention, a physical exam can possibly save your life?

OK, LET’S GET TO THESE NOTABLE REASONS WHY A PHYSICAL IS SO VITAL:

#1 – Blood Pressure Screening: This measures the force of your blood pushing against your arteries. When blood pressure is too high that is a concern for increased risk of stroke, heart attack, kidney and heart disease as well as some forms of dementia.

#2 – Cholesterol Screening: This measures the amount of cholesterol in your blood. High cholesterol can lead to heart disease, stroke, and peripheral artery disease.

#3 – Blood Glucose Screening: This measures the amount of sugar in your blood and can help identify if you are at risk for diabetes.

#4 – Osteoporosis Screening: This measures for bone density and can help identify if your back pain, loss of height over time, stooped posture and other factors may be due to osteoporosis.

#5 – Update Your Medical Record: You know a lot can change in a day – imagine a year! If you’re getting yearly physicals this is a perfect time to update your doctor on any medication changes, allergies, mental health concerns, lifestyle changes and any new information you’ve discovered about your family history.

#6 – Update Your Vaccination’s: Just because you’re an adult doesn’t mean staying current with your vaccines isn’t necessary. You can speak with your doctor about what vaccinations need updating (especially the flu vaccine), as well as any risk factors or concerns you have.

#7 – Cancer Screening: From colon, prostate and lung cancer to breast and skin cancer – screening for these can aid in prevention or detection in the early stages (when treatment is most helpful).

#8 – Body Mass Index (BMI): This calculation can determine a healthy weight and get you on the right track for living a healthy lifestyle of exercise and proper diet.

#9 – Get To Know Your Doctor: Each visit with your doctor, especially your yearly physical, can help you get to know your doctor and allow the doctor to get to know you and your specific health concerns, needs, etc.

#10 – Prevention & Saving Your Money: Probably one of our favorite reasons for a yearly physical is prevention. By spotting health concerns now, you’re setting yourself up for fewer visits to the doctor and a healthier you!

Not to mention, fewer visits to the doctor (because you are so awesome at going to your yearly physical and you’re all about prevention) saves you money⏤and who wouldn’t love to spend that money on a weekend getaway versus another doctor visit.

Often times, the fear of finding something out (disease diagnosis) is what prevents many people from actually making an appointment for a physical and showing up for it.

Our thinking is that with knowledge you can make the best decisions for you and your family and be able to participate in playing the game of offense, rather than having to play defense in an emergency room because you didn’t take care of yourself.

Take an active part in your health game now ⏤ not later!

Stress Incontinence (Why You Leak When You Laugh) & Treatment Options

Sun, 18 Mar 2018 10:26:02 GMT

Stress Incontinence (Why You Leak When You Laugh) & Treatment Options

Have you ever been at lunch with a friend and while you were both laughing at something, you felt like you sprung a leak in your underwear?

Or maybe you were coughing, sneezing or heck, even exercising and felt urine leakage?

This common occurrence in women is called stress incontinence.

Stress incontinence can transpire when physical activity like heavy lifting, running, coughing, sneezing, standing up and even sexual intercourse places stress (pressure) on the bladder.

However, don’t be fooled by the name stress; this type of incontinence has no relation to psychological stress.

Stress incontinence also differs from urge incontinence which is when the bladder muscle contracts which results in the unintentional loss of urine (correlated to a feeling of urgency).

Stress Incontinence Symptoms

The following symptoms may or may not be experienced every time you cough, sneeze, etc. Keep in mind – especially when your bladder is full⏤that any pressure-increasing movement can leave you susceptible to urine loss.

Exercise
Getting Out of Car
Standing Up
Lifting Something Heavy
Sexual Intercourse
Sneezing
Coughing
Laughing

CAUSES & CONTRIBUTING FACTORS OF STRESS INCONTINENCE

Stress incontinence is due to weak tissues and pelvic floor muscles (that support the bladder) and controls the release of urine.

Because the muscles are weak any strain on the pelvic and abdominal muscles can place pressure on the bladder, and thus, causes urine leakage.

Causes & Contributing Factors:

Childbirth
Prostate surgery (in men)
Chronic sneezing or coughing
Smoking (may cause frequent coughing)
Running and jumping (high-impact) over a prolonged period of time
Obesity

RISK FACTORS FOR STRESS INCONTINENCE

Some risk factors like body weight, age, previous pelvic surgery and type of childbirth delivery may increase your risk of stress incontinence.

Body Weight: Any added stress placed on the pelvic and abdominal organs due to excess weight can increase the risk of stress incontinence.

Age: Even though stress incontinence can occur at any age, weakening of muscles due to aging may be a stress incontinence risk factor.

Previous Pelvic Surgery: Men who have had prostate surgery and women who have had a hysterectomy (which alters the support of the urethra and bladder) are at risk for stress incontinence.

Type of Childbirth Delivery: Women who have delivered vaginally and/or forceps were used in the delivery process are at risk for stress incontinence.

STRESS INCONTINENCE TREATMENT OPTIONS

Kegal Exercises: these pelvic floor exercises help to strengthen the muscles and can be done throughout the day and nobody will even know.

Weight Loss: Focusing on a healthy weight for your body can decrease any added stress to your bladder.

Stop Smoking: Because coughing is exacerbated while smoking (not to mention all of the health risks associated with smoking); cessation of smoking can definitely help stress incontinence.

Watch Caffeine Intake: Caffeine (tea, coffee, chocolate) can irritate the bladder, so it’s best to opt for no caffeine or regulate your intake.

Surgical Treatment: Although the surgical route is usually the last resort, speaking with your doctor can help you decide which path is best for you.

YOUR NEXT STEPS:

Discuss potential stress incontinence symptoms and treatment options with your healthcare professional and get back to laughing without leaking!

10 Foods (and Supplements) That Support A Healthy Heart Lifestyle

Sun, 18 Feb 2018 18:30:00 GMT

10 Foods (and Supplements) That Support A Healthy Heart Lifestyle

Did you know that the heart produces so much energy on a daily basis⏤it’s comparable to driving a truck 20 miles?

Over your lifetime, that is like taking a trip to the moon and back!

Who knew that blood pumper of a heart could do so much in such a little amount of time.

Because February is Heart Health Month and we’ve already talked this month about women and the heart, as well as some healthy heart living tips – we thought we’d give you some specific foods and supplements that will support that heart of yours (to the moon and back!)

Foods That Support A Healthy Heart Lifestyle

1. Wild Salmon: full of omega-3 fatty acids, selenium and antioxidants – this (wild, not farmed) fish loves to help your heart pump. You have permission to go wild on those salmon salads!

2. Sardines: according to the Mayo Clinic, these little fresh fish can help reduce the risk of a sudden heart attack in those that have had a previous heart attack. Olive oil can help the palate with these "acquired taste" little fish.

3. Almonds and Walnuts: these heart lovers not only support your heart, but walnuts can also keep your memory keen. A handful or two should do the trick!

4. Apples: with their cholesterol-blocking pectin and polyphenols, no wonder why the saying goes, “Eat an apple a day and keep the doctor away.” P.S. – keep that peel on; that’s where all of the antioxidants love to hang out.

5. Blueberries: we like to think of blueberries as wine (or grapes) first cousin. These things

are packed with resveratrol (an antioxidant powerhouse) that loves to infuse the heart with health.

6. Coffee: yep, you read that right, we said coffee. As long as you’re not diluting it with tons of sugar, the high level of antioxidants not only supports your heart, but also reduces the risk of Alzheimer’s and type 2 diabetes. Cheers!

7. Red Wine: Was that a “hallelujah” we just heard? Yes, red wine (especially Cabernets and Madirans) are so packed with the antioxidant resveratrol (remember blueberries) that next time you’re enjoying a glass of your favorite wine – make sure to salute to your heart!

Supplements That Support A Healthy Heart Lifestyle

1. Coenzyme Q10: (also known as ubiquinone or ubiquinol) helps your body support energy production and is known to be one of the most cogent antioxidants available. Co-Q10 fights those free radicals and protects your body from oxidative stress, which in turn helps your body to restore health.

2. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: found in seafood and fish, they love to fight inflammation, plaque buildup and improve your cholesterol. Omega-3's are probably one of the most popular form of cardiovascular supplementation.

3. Magnesium: we know that stress can wreak havoc on the body and in turn, cause strain on our cardiovascular system. Think of magnesium as the “anti-stress” nutrient – with its blood pressure and blood sugar lowering capabilities. And because most American’s don’t get adequate amounts of magnesium, it’s easier now more than ever to grab a magnesium supplement that can go in your drink or take a bath (magnesium flakes or powder) and just relax.

Ok, now which healthy heart food and/or supplement are you going to start with first?

And as always, speak with your healthcare professional before starting any new health regimen.

Healthy Heart How-To's

Sun, 04 Feb 2018 18:30:00 GMT

Healthy Heart How-To's

February: we know you’re a love-filled month -- with all of your delicious chocolate and sweet, sappy Valentine’s Day cards that make us feel all warm and toasty.

But, did you know that February is also Heart Health Month ?

And we’re not talking about the chocolate or candy heart(s) here either.

We’re talking your real-deal heart that is pumping and life-giving.

This month, we get a chance to help shine a light on ways you can support a happy and healthy heart.

So, get comfortable and let’s dive in…

Healthy Heart Living

Ready for the not-so-fun news?

For both men and women in the United States, heart disease is the leading cause of death.

There’s good news though: heart disease is also one of the most preventable.

Heart disease can come in many forms ranging anywhere from arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats) to atherosclerosis (plaque build-up). Working with your doctor to identify heart issues is crucial to your health.

Knowing the risk factors for heart disease, as well as your family health history and making choices that help support a healthy lifestyle will be vital to your heart health journey.

Healthy Heart Living Tips:

Partake in exercise (3-5 times a week) for 20-30 minutes.

Embrace food that is high in unsaturated fats like fish and avocado and is low in salt and transfats.

Control your sugar levels, especially if you have diabetes. Having diabetes can contribute to developing a heart disease (even if your glucose levels are controlled).

Maintain a healthy weight: surplus weight can add strain to the heart and increase the risk of stroke and other heart diseases.

Dump the cigarettes for good. Smokers have twice the chance of suffering from a heart attack versus non-smokers. Not to mention the increased risk of stroke.

Know your family history: if a parent or sibling has heart disease (especially at a young age) this may increase your risk.

Keep your cholesterol in check. If you have other risk factors (family history for example), you may have a greater risk of coronary heart disease all due to high cholesterol.

Support a healthy blood pressure.

Limit alcohol consumption – for women: ½ - 1 drink per day, for men: 1-2 drinks per day. This can help reduce the risk of stroke, as well as lessen effects on blood pressure and/or cholesterol.

Terminate any drug abuse; especially the use of amphetamines and cocaine. Heart disease, stroke and lung failure can all be tied to heroin, opiates, cocaine and amphetamines.

Identify stressors and any triggers for depression and/or anger. Controlling these emotions will add to your overall heart health and decrease your risk for heart disease.

Women & The Heart

Heart disease may be the number one cause of death for both men and women, but women tend to have particular risks, in addition to signs and symptoms that differ from men.

Here are some of the increased risks for heart disease in women:

Smoking and taking an oral contraceptive pill.

High blood pressure (especially pregnant women).

Approaching and eventually, menopause.

According to the American Heart Association here are the Heart Attack Signs in Women:

Uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain in the center of your chest. It lasts more than a few minutes, or goes away and comes back.
Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.
Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort.
Other signs such as breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness.
As with men, women’s most common heart attack symptom is chest pain or discomfort. But women are somewhat more likely than men to experience some of the other common symptoms, particularly shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting and back or jaw pain.

NEXT STEPS

If you're not working with a physician, please get in touch with one.

Integrate the Healthy Heart Living Tips (above) into your lifestyle.

Look into supplementing with a reputable o mega 3 supplement for heart health support.

And don't forget the chocolate and sappy love cards for your loved one(s) this month!

Thyroid Awareness & The Proper Functioning Of Your "Car"

Tue, 23 Jan 2018 09:16:51 GMT

Thyroid Awareness & The Proper Functioning Of Your "Car"

What does the shape of butterflies and January have in common?

Thyroid Awareness Month that is!

You’ve heard us talking about all things hormones and balance this month—and your thyroid (the butterfly-shaped gland located under the Adam's apple)—is a key player in how your hormones work together in the body.

Your overall wellness can be directly linked to hormones and thyroid and almost 40% of people in the U.S. suffer from thyroid and hormonal imbalances.

To some of you, that 40% might not be a shocking number because you actually may feel like the functioning of your body is compromised...and the thyroid (in tandem with your hormones) could be the culprit.

Thyroid | The Proper Functioning of A Car

Although this gland is relatively small, it is mighty in its power!

The thyroid gland acts like a car and just like your vehicle, it needs proper gas, maintenance and lots of TLC.

The thyroid gland influences most of the body, including the heart, brain, liver, kidneys and skin. It also helps regulate metabolism and hormones.

Special hormones that the thyroid regulates:

TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone)⏤TSH speaks up when more thyroid hormone is needed

T4 (Thyroxine)⏤the thyroid hormone that is inactive and/or used for storage

T3 (Triiodothyronine)⏤active thyroid hormone; responsible for increased metabolic activity

Reverse T3⏤this thyroid hormone helps maintain balance with your metabolism

Is Your Car Trying to Tell You Something?

If you're wondering what signs and symptoms to identify when it comes to thyroid imbalance, here are some to look out for:

Slow thinking

Stiffness and pain in joints

Bags under the eyes

Poor sense of balance, dizziness

Nasal congestion

Yellowing of palms of hands and soles of feet

Depression

Bowel movements less than daily, or with difficulty

Face looks bloated

Difficulty losing weight, even when eating less/exercising more

Feel worse if a meal is missed

Sleep disturbances

Do not sweat much, even when exercising

Frequent infections

Headaches, often worse in morning.

Low sex drive

Feel cold more than most other people

Dry skin or hair and/or hair loss

Moody and irritable

What To Do When Your Car Is Acting Up

If you're questioning right now, "Maybe it's my thyroid that's giving me trouble"⏤you may not be too far off, but only a visit with your doctor can really determine that.

Keep in mind, it's just like taking your car to a qualified mechanic for a trusted diagnosis; the same thing with your thyroid functioning: speak to a healthcare professional.

And a thyroid imbalance does not have to mean the end of the world! Options exist that include - but are not limited to⏤medication and therapies that can be natural (or prescribed), as well as adopting an overall healthier lifestyle that supports healthy functioning thyroid and hormone levels.

Why You Want Happy Hormones (For All Ages)

Fri, 12 Jan 2018 08:54:25 GMT

Why You Want Happy Hormones (For All Ages)

When it comes to hormones, what are some of the pictures that come to mind?

A hormone-raging teenager usually pops up.

And then a woman fanning herself in the midst of a hot-flash has its moment.

We also tend to think of the other hormone-inducing times that can put a kink in our lives like the cramp-filled menstrual cycle, or the pickle-eating pregnancy.

And don’t even get us started on the other crazy cravings that can be associated with pregnancy and those up and down hormones coursing through our bodies.

But, what if we told you that hormones play a much bigger role in our body then unusual cravings and a peaked teenager curiosity of the human anatomy?

It turns out — as we learn more and more about the endocrine system — hormones can affect everything from weight fluctuations to heart health and that is just the beginning.

Pretty interesting, right?

So, if we’re going to talk about hormones, we have to start with the endocrine system and that means school is about to be in session (but don’t worry, this is cool school — no humongous words that mean nothing to you).

Let’s get started…

Hormone School

Endo-what? Endo-who?

Ahh, the endocrine system—what a specialized group of cells this system is!

Basically, the endocrine system is made up of a series of glands and those glands are all about producing hormones. You can find these hormone glands throughout your body and each of them has certain duties that help the body stay in balance.

Hence why when we feel out of whack, our hormones may be the culprit.

A hormone imbalance can create symptoms that so many people experience, but sometimes don’t think it is related to hormones.

Symptom Checker

As we’ve said, hormones play a major role in the body.

Here’s a simple symptom checker for you to see if the symptoms you’re feeling are potentially hormone related.

(If you check “yes” to any of these, a conversation with your doctor is a great place to start!)

Fatigue

Mood Changes: Irritability Anxiety / Nervousness Depression

Decreased Mental Ability: Memory Loss Confusion Loss of Focus

Hot Flashes / Night Sweats

Weight Gain: Bloating Excessive Belly Fat Inability to Lose Weight

Decreased Sex Drive: Vaginal Dryness

Sleep Problems: Can’t Stay Asleep / Can’t Fall A sleep

Cold Hands & Feet / Always Cold

Hair loss / Breakage

Dry Wrinkled Skin

Happy Hormone Options

Great, you’re thinking, these symptoms sound like my everyday life.

Now, what do I do?

Thankfully, there are new options for happy hormone health and one of them is Bio-identical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) which is delivered to patients in the form of pellets placed under the skin, with little downtime.

Why Pellet Therapy?

One of the biggest benefits of pellet therapy is that the pellets are more natural for your body and have much less negative interactions. The pellets have the same structure as naturally occurring human hormones and are plant-derived and found in nature.

In addition, the pellets are more consistent with dosing because they remain in the body in contrast to other hormone therapies like pills and creams that can create an uncomfortable rollercoaster effect.

And with pellet therapy, studies are showing improvements in conditions like PMS, low sex drive, depressions, osteoporosis, menopause, anxiety and heart disease.

Whether you’re in your late 20’s, or just hitting your 60’s, there is help for your hormones and in most cases, it can be just a phone call away!

Why Me: Your Hyper-Pigmentation Guide

Tue, 05 Sep 2017 18:30:00 GMT

Why Me: Your Hyper-Pigmentation Guide

Was that Labor Day that just happened?

Your summer heart may be a little sad about the “official” ending of summer—however — your face might just be rejoicing.

The sun and the sand can be helpful for the soul, but that big ball of sunshine in the sky can also be brutal to our skin.

A common post-summer issue is hyper-pigmentation.

If you’ve ever experienced this common skin condition then you may be familiar with what hyper-pigmentation is all about.

However, if you’ve never heard of hyper-pigmentation, or if you’re looking to know more about it, we’ve created a hyper-pigmentation guide just for you!

What Is Hyper-Pigmentation?

Hyper-pigmentation is an area (usually on your nose, chin, upper lip, cheeks, forehead and even the back of your hands and décolleté) that is a dark discoloration.

This can be due in part to a melanin increase (which is the substance where the pigment is regulated).

WHY ME?

The hyper-pigmentation culprits can include:

• The sun!

Dr. Zein Obagi (Beverly Hills Dermatologist & ZO® Founder) says that “…the worst culprit is cumulative sun exposure.”

• Hormones from birth control, pregnancy, etc.

• Melasma “the mask of pregnancy” is also another form of hyper-pigmentation and is thought to be triggered predominately by hormones. However, vascular disorders like Rosacea are also being studied for the role of blood vessels and how they play into Melasma as well.

• Post inflammation: acne, skin trauma, insect stings/bites, burns, cuts, and bruises.

WHAT ARE MY OPTIONS?

We don’t think you’re ever too young to start prevention and a quality skincare routine.

The options we give you below are what we highly recommend to our very own clients, so please let us know if you have any questions.

• Early prevention: apply sunscreen every two hours.

• IPL (Intense Pulse Light) —this laser resurfacing treatment helps varying skin types and conditions (especially hyper-pigmentation). We use Lumecca™ IPL by InMode and the benefits include total photo rejuvenation in 1-2 treatments versus 4-6 with standard IPL’s and patient comfort and safety that is supported by a strong sapphire cooling tip.

• Various and customized skincare products.

With early prevention of skin damage and the use of sunscreen along with the addition of laser treatments (IPL) and/or a hyper-pigmentation skincare system—you and your skin shall be happy in and out of the sun.

Are Your Digital Devices Aging You?

Tue, 18 Jul 2017 06:12:36 GMT

Are Your Digital Devices Aging You?

We're sure you're acquainted with the harmful effects of UVA/UVB light.

However, HEV light is causing a stir as well and for good reason.

HEV (High-Energy Visible Light—also called blue light) not only comes from the sun, but the blue light emitted from digital devices like phones, computers, LED sources and fluorescent lights as well.

What makes HEV light such a powerhouse is that it may actually be more harmful than UVA and UVB combined.

(A great way to recall the differing A and B Rays: "A" (Aging)—will cause premature aging, “B” (Burning)—will burn or tan your skin) because the cell damage goes deeper and you may not even know it's happening to you because HEV doesn't necessarily produce burns or redness.)

Why Avoid HEV Light?

A few reasons why you want to avoid HEV light…

May cause inflammation of the skin
Uneven pigmentation
Aging (fine lines, wrinkles)
Dryness
Sensitivity

Thankfully, we literally have you covered!

UVA/UVB Skin Solutions

BLUE LIGHT FILTERS

Contacts and/or glasses that help block blue light for all of your digital devices (computer, phone).

SKINCARE

Because we do a comprehensive skincare analysis, we will recommend the best products and treatments to help protect your skin from the UVA/UVB/HEV light.